I Remapped My CHEAP Smart 451 Brabus Engine + Gearbox! Its BONKERS!! *First Drive*

I remapped my CHEAP Smart 451 Brabus! Its QUICK! I am so impressed with what BIG Performance have done to my Smart 451 Brabus! The Smart 451 Brabus was already a nippy little thing but with the improvement of 30% more power to around 130bhp and 30% quicker gear shifts my Smart 451 Brabus is now transformed! My Smart 451 Brabus not only has increased performance but it feels so much smoother and usable too. The gear changes can now be engaged much earlier so you dont have to hold on to gears like you did on the stock smart 451 Brabus map.
Check out BIG performance for SMART Car Remaps and tell Ian i sent you!
www.bigperformance.co.uk/
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[@Filipe1020]

As a huge Smart fan myself I'm loving this series so much, please keep doing videos on your smart brabus it's all I really need.

[@StefABtv]

Thanks for watching!

[@Smartsparky]

Ok with you!! I love Smarts to! I'm on my 2nd 1.

[@AdamFPV]

Glad you went to Ian and not any other so called experts. He is the best in the UK for sure!!!!

[@karlruditis5615]

He retired.

[@evilutionltd]

@@jurgendanhof Yeah, sadly the whole Covid thing and S2smarts having to relocate made him decide to retire. I'll be changing my remap recommendations to BIG Performance. I have had my issues with Ian in the past but it's time to forgive and forget and move on. Ian really knows his stuff, it's just his customer service is poor.

[@ianbigg4325]

@@evilutionltd you are correct. Thank you for your input

[@roblawrence6474]

This makes me want to buy a 451 brabus! Excellent video loving this series, looking forward to what yo do next with it

[@StefABtv]

Thanks Rob!

[@NickG24]

I used to have a smart roadster - brand new back 2005, local Merc dealer had a load and they were getting rid at £7500 a piece! I loved the thing after some initial turbo issues. Gearbox was quirky as it was more of a robotised manual having a clutch and actuator. You could smooth out the changes with a bit of careful feathering of the throttle. Not being a brabus it didn’t have paddles. Handling was great, slightly akin to a Lotus Elise. I always wanted a remap but then I got my fiancée up the duff 🤣

[@pantzman]

Paddles, pods and much more were optional. I had one that came with about everything except leather seats and trip computer. Can say I regretted selling it. Had upgraded it with Brabus SB2 software (about +10hp, 1,4 bar) and 17" Runlines + much more. Still looking at cars for sale and will probably end up buying one at some point.

[@weasle1uk]

Loved my roadster too. Managed to improve the handling by putting it on a diet lol.

[@anestis5742]

You HAVE to put an exhaust on asap. It’s going to transform the car even more

[@StefABtv]

Have thought about it

[@planetchain]

Anestis, I was thinking the exact same thing! Excellent comment. Do it Stef!

[@anestis5742]

@@StefABtv a friend of mine has a custom exhaust and it sounds insane. I can send you a video to convince you;)

[@alphonsothompson6211]

@@StefABtv just try to keep it an available and affordable to the masses exhaust if you swap it out...

[@MrRawUK]

@@StefABtv Don't do it if you enjoy your ears.

[@chrisylink]

Ah man your killing me with these smart videos. Im in the states and these never caught on like I wish they did. I frikin love these cars. More smart videos please!

[@paulcoles3265]

NOW it’s a pocket rocket mate! Well done Big Performance for producing big smiles per mile!

[@StefABtv]

They smashed it. Great car now!

[@JordanStead]

Loving the nostalgic Abarth-y channel throwback vibe of Stef behind the wheel of this thing. What a great series.

[@StefABtv]

Cheers buddy!

[@realtalkoldschool4351]

30 Seconds In I hit the Subscribe Button ! Love the Energy ! Hats off to you and ones who remind us to gust have fun and love what we do ! Brilliant ! sending all my best to everyone who makes this channel a joy !

[@StefABtv]

Thank you so much

[@arran2900]

I currently drive a smart forfour 2015, and I am super jealous of yours. This car looks insane, I think it's worth the money. Nice work!

[@StefABtv]

Thanks!

[@timim.3203]

Hi there, awesome video! By the way, Euro 5 has been introduced before 2011, even with the 98hp models from 2009 onwards, at least in Germany. Mine was manufactured in 2009 and has Euro 5. Enjoy your smart! It makes me smile every time i see it. 😀

[@StefABtv]

Thanks for clearing it up!! 🙌🙌 wicked little cars!

[@rikybologna3579]

102 HP is Euro 5b.

[@y0057]

Yehaaaa👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾😁, mine is a Euro 4 model, I’ll definitely be reaching out to Ian👌🏿🙃

[@PKWeaver74]

I just bought a bog standard smart 450 700cc and that's surprisingly fun and accelerates much more quickly than I had expected. Can't imagine having more than double the bhp in such a tiny car.

[@tonyd223]

We had one and the gear shift was terrible! Your enthusiasm has made me look up Autotrader. Great video.

[@StefABtv]

Haha thank you!

[@LivetoDriveUK]

As we have said before; huge Smart ForTwo fans. Own a 450. Love the videos. I think the camera almost did it proud if only because of the size of your smile 💪

[@StefABtv]

Thanks!!

[@lawrencehooper4341]

Nicely presented review. I have the original ForFour Brabus with about 177 bhp and it pulls pretty strong as standard. Small cars which go a bit quickly feel quicker than some large cars which go very quickly. Its all about how they feel. P.s I've never been in a Smart for two

[@ianbigg4325]

Lawrence . A remap for your Brabus will add approx 30bhp as well.

[@NickG24]

When I had my Smart Roadster I had a for four 1.3 as a courtesy car and even that thing felt rapid at the time! Think 100bhp 16v engine so it would do over things like Saxo VTRs!

[@keithevans5667]

Brilliant video.... defo more smiles 😃 per mile! Just for fun go and drive the Aston Martin Cygnet if you can find one!

[@MrChiptatum]

I must confess bud when I saw your expressions of your face when paddle shifting the gears it made me laugh until I piss myself as this is the feeling I got when I changed my smart for two cabriolet engine to a roadster engine and now it is a GO CART... I must also confess your smart car Brabus looks in absolute pristine condition and thank you for the vid and keep em coming I have now subscribed so would love to see more content from you. All the best bud.

[@rudyloedeman5730]

I've got the Roadster but maybe when this one will be on its end I will buy one of these. Nice to see you are enjoying yours so much

[@StefABtv]

Yeah it’s super fun!

[@stevie007]

Great stuff Stef 🙏🙏👍👍

[@StefABtv]

Cheers mate

[@marszbrowse2894]

I did the same with my Smart, also a euro 4 model. It maxed out at 178 km/h which felt bloody fast. The engine got so warm that it hardened all nuts and bold, when you put a wrench on they just sheared completely off. My Smart lasted 1,5 year until the engine was a complete right off and had to be replaced. Still i had the most fun while it lasted👍🏼

[@DH-zs8cu]

love this series dude

[@StefABtv]

Thanks!!!

[@johngoodall7097]

Cheers Stef you were never sad but you are happy now👍👍👍🚘🚘🚘

[@simonrhys]

cool, I'd be happy scooting around in one of these!

[@myrmeko]

You should totally look into lightweight seats, rims (around 6kg per rim) and other stuff. You could probably get it down to onky 700kg without ruining the looks. The muffler probably weighs a lot, you could get a Flowmaster one instead, because you gain power, sound, but not loudness. And it will be less weight. No more engine plastic covers, a lithium battery does wonders in terms of weight, another KZbinr weighed some.

[@StefABtv]

Might look into this :)

[@myrmeko]

@@StefABtv Cool. This car has so much potential. Even the electric Smart ForTwo is such an amazing little thing, since that got remapped too. Btw, what is the rev limit now?

[@davidperez1761]

Would that be a good idea? When winds get strong In Southern Cal. Specifically the foothills of San Bernardino. The Cajon pass will tip over diesels. My car gets pushed around lightly.

[@myrmeko]

@@davidperez1761 If you live in an area like that, maybe not.

[@joelwafula7703]

Thanks Stef wonderful content and information! I too have a smart car! I have just emailed Ian 🙌🏾💪🏾

[@StefABtv]

Legend mate 🙌

[@wpjohn91]

Hey bud, awsome stuff. Loving this series. stance needs work. Spacer kit?

[@StefABtv]

Yeah need to have a think what we do with stance as I want to go lower with it so need to prob do that first and see how much space is left.

[@Orange-label]

This is very cool Stef 👌

[@StefABtv]

Cheers dude

[@BL1TZEN]

0:42 Honestly wondered wtf I was initially looking at on B.I.G Performance’s first image there..

[@tomhowroyd]

My favourite car KZbin series.

[@StefABtv]

Thank you! 🙌

[@PeakPerformanceReviews]

Haha mental mate! I now want one, that’s epic power to weight 👌👌

[@StefABtv]

Mad isn’t it lol

[@PeakPerformanceReviews]

@@StefABtv big time mate! Love that!

[@robertlloyd7493]

An interesting little car 👍

[@187_45]

I have the 453 Brabus Cabrio i love it ☺️

[@speedtracker100]

funny little car, the job well done, bravo dude...

[@StefABtv]

Cheers dude

[@benny_mc]

That looks smart👍

[@StefABtv]

I see what you did there lol

[@tomskinner5386]

Came here for the info about gearbox remapping, stayed for the impeccable pronunciation of "Competizione" Amazing as always, love watching the journey of this little car!

[@StefABtv]

Haha thank you 🙌

[@jajoturbo7228]

So good video ! I want a remaped 451 now ! I'm in France looking for a 84/451 Fortwo Hope I will find someone to work on it ! Thanks for sharing !

[@StefABtv]

Thanks for watching!

[@michelhadid]

Love this project

[@StefABtv]

Thanks!

[@AndrewJB]

I've been talking to Ian recently about my cheap run around Smart CDI, at £750 for gearbox and ECU its a lot for a cheap run around but I will probably get it done at some point.

[@scottmaytham3578]

I can't believe how well they handle those crash tests.❤

[@SmartRacer]

That is just beginning, you should check Smart HarD TuninG GR, they developed stage 5 for this car which makes 314hp.

[@StefABtv]

Yeah but all the power is at the top end. Won’t be very drivable as a daily

[@SmartRacer]

@@StefABtv Agree, Stage 2 with 155hp is more than enough 😅

[@richy10vtec52]

Great video, what is next for you? Will you be going on a trip to Monaco in the Brabus with your wife?

[@StefABtv]

Just got back from Monaco. Need to save for the next trip. Will see what we do next 🙌

[@rv9990]

I'm a little late. But really enjoyed the video again. 👍

[@StefABtv]

Thank you!

[@bolaojf]

Esse carrinho é de fato, muito bacana.

[@shaunwest3612]

Great video stef, those figures are amazing, nice one👌👍😀

[@StefABtv]

Cheers dude!

[@David_JA_Noble]

need to see some motorway driving and overtaking

[@davidperez1761]

Looks like my car. Rims n all. 👍🙏❤️🦅🇺🇸

[@davidperez1761]

Mines too. Do all grey cars come with these rims?

[@xXLARzXx]

This looks really, really good! If you don't mind me asking what width are the front and back wheels, did you lower the car and if so, how much, and do you have any rubbing or scraping in hard turns or over bumps? I am having so much trouble finding wheels and tires for my 2013 updated (has the updated front spoiler so I think it's 2nd half of 2013 model) 451 after lowering with H&R springs. Thank you.

[@stevecade857]

If those performance upgrades were just from firmware tweaks perhaps the car should of come stock like that. It would of had the rep to go with its Brabus looks.

[@StefABtv]

Agree

[@giovannibenedetto9937]

Fantastic car. Reminds me of the fiat Uno turbo

[@StefABtv]

Haha yeah so much fun

[@JBCTR]

*Buys cheap runaround* Begins modifying immediately. 🤣

[@StefABtv]

lol it’s an addiction 😂😂

[@mgrella63]

My Smart ForTwo Cabrio Gets squirrley on the highway at High speeds ! The wind affects it too. I stay off the highways keep it local. I wouldnt advise highspeed over 70 mphs

[@notouriosdja]

i have the 84bhp smart and going to remap it soon

[@poolieboy6403]

Lol great video, I’ve watched the entire journey, I know it’s a project so can I buy it off you when you’re finished?

[@StefABtv]

Already sold unfortunately

[@Banks_Taylor]

Haha just do it!! Let's see 130 🤌🤌🤌 cause that would be amazing 👏

[@StefABtv]

Need Germany

[@robwalker9657]

Fab video mate.....I have the roadster and get my friends to have a go after slating it and their reaction is just like yours.....very underated cars :)

[@StefABtv]

Yep! So much fun!

[@ianbigg4325]

The roadster can be improved just as well as the 451s

[@BobC250]

Great vid - just a tip on audio. I'm guessing you've put compression on the audio track, to make it louder. Unfortunately you've gone OTT with that! The audio is really tinny and you get listening fatigue after just a minute or so. I'd back that off as it's not really necessary on a YT video (I'm a mastering engineer BTW :o)

[@StefABtv]

Thanks! Will try make some changes to future videos

[@adampakula4285]

Cool video mate. How much did it cost to get it remapped? Can WMEEJ3BA7DK be remapped as well? TY

[@mattluxton8802]

I owned an early fourtwo cabrio back in the day and the gearchange was probably the most disappointing thing about it. Dangerously slow and meant you had to plan ahead when pulling out at junctions or roundabouts etc.

[@StefABtv]

Yeah stock it’s really not great! Mapped is much better but still not quick!

[@stpfs9281]

@@StefABtv Mine isn't, only a "Passion", maybe it was remapped in the past? 2 previous owners, Smann exhaust. With a passenger, accidentally spun the wheels, much to our surprise!

[@leo-tg3hs]

Hi, awesome video!! Are you saying a euro 4 accelerates faster than a euro 5 after a remap? By the way do you know if the euro 4 cars have the cruise control or is it just on the euro 5?

[@ChopsGarage]

.........searching ads for used Smart Barbus.....................................great vid

[@StefABtv]

Haha. Great fun!!

[@rikybologna3579]

*@Stef ABtv* Did you map ESP too? It is very invasive on my 451 Brabus, but whole turn it off is unsafe to be honest. Further, a LSD would be useful too on my opinion. Bye from Italy.

[@scottjackman7668]

Does having the gearbox remapped but extra pressure or lower life limit on it? Anything negative on it’s health? Can it also be mapped on a standard passion MK2?

[@StefABtv]

I think it can. All it does is increase the speed of the clutch actuator movement.

[@kusskuss6970]

I didn't heard the turbo sound!?! You need a sport air filter!!! (k&n, pipercross, dna...) or drive without it🥳🥳🥳 ...cause of the side mounted air box pipe, the fresh air is pretty clean compared to front engine mounted cars. Without a filter it's a turbo eargasm 😁😁 (left window down!!!) a sport exhaust manifold + exhaust is nice for sure, helps your turbo to exhale and keep the exhaust gas temperature bit lower + brings you a even better spooling turbo...but could be annoying at some point. Next step you need a obd2 tool to check your iat, turbo pressure, etc. ...and a bigger intercooler is recommendable, cause the iat and the temperature at all goes pretty high with that small peace in the back.

[@StefABtv]

Thanks! Yeah it’s now a question of value for money as you won’t get much more power without spending loads

[@kusskuss6970]

@@StefABtv OBD2 tool just 40€ ish at eGay (don't know in £). Intercooler will definitely helps you, that the engine doesn't pull the ignition (engine security functions of the ecu at high iat e.g. to avoid knocking combustion)...big perf. sell that for sure. Exhaust 600€ ish. But I got you!!! it's always the same...at the end, as a car guy you'll do it either way 😁😁

[@colbyhumphrey2316]

Got a smart 450 as my first car, wicked little cars, keep thinking about a remap, rough estimate on how much it cost?? 🚗

[@StefABtv]

£375 for the remap mate

[@jonnygibbings9557]

Hey Fella - Jonny here - was at church's. I'm at the coolest place now and wondered if you wanted to do an Aston Martin feature - we've a GT8 and a DB11 and a Volante!!!

[@StefABtv]

Hey mate. Yeah that would be pretty cool! Haven’t driven astons on the channel before so would be pretty cool to get one on there!

[@jonnygibbings9557]

@@StefABtv mate, GT8 is one of 150... you'll never see a dealer as cool as us 100%

[@stephen300o6]

Tiny cars with turbos respond very well to ecu tickling.

[@StefABtv]

They do indeed!

[@stephen300o6]

I have a 453 Proxy and am very tempted to get it remapped. These Mario Karts really wake with a stir.

[@helixvonsmelix]

I recognise 95% of those roads and the parking place.

[@StefABtv]

Good roads!

[@rogerhudson2814]

People who had gearboxes with no synchromesh wouldn't have a problem with a Smart, no double declutch, just play the revs.

[@Depoe72]

Right , that’s it …..get the Smart mapped 🤦🏼‍♂️🤷🏼‍♂️😂. Said to my wife it was only my daily and I won’t do anything with it 🥴. This is the Abarth all over again . My wife hates you even more now bud 😳😂😂👊🏻

[@StefABtv]

Hahaha! So sorry mate 😂😂

[@tripandrong1150]

ok i buy this tomorrow

[@georgeclarke1183]

this is a high mileage car does the extra bhp effect the reliability of the engine and gearbox and whats the total cost for these upgrades

[@StefABtv]

No Ian has mapped many and these engines are strong. With it being high Mileage the usual things need to be checked but the remap shouldn’t affect the engine. Each remap is £375

[@saeyimkuon7394]

I am glad you are so happy. Will you take it to Nürburgring?. Just for a little "remapped" fun.

[@StefABtv]

I will be taking it to the ring 😂

[@user-ro5ll9mp4c]

It's a very cute car. Thailand does not have If you enter Thailand, the tax is very expensive.

[@HandyDan]

You guys are so lucky over there, BRABUS is so amazing, I love the sound of your car now. In the USA Smarts are not popular, it is harder to find shops to do any repairs, much less MODS! I had to do my car myself. I have a 255hp dual engine all-wheel drive Smart fortwo.😀

[@StefABtv]

255bhp!? That’s insane!

[@handydanonyoutube3852]

@Stef ABtv Yes, I have a 2015 Smart EV, factory 55kw, Steinbauer chip now 75kw, 107hp. Plus my 2011 GSXR 750 of 148hp. Ripping Smart fortwo with all the OEM rear storage, and AWD fun.

[@stephenr6427]

At least you can get those haircuts done quicker 😂 only joking smart cars are a good little car

[@Djwatzy]

That looks the bollocks. Shame it doesn't have a manual box!

[@StefABtv]

Haha cheers

[@Murlock2000]

now do this on a Roadster Brabus :D

[@BigPerformance]

We remap the brabus roadster too

[@Noukz37]

The best way to explain the acceleration to people is to show them numbers... So what is the 0-100 kph?

[@MrOrangeman18]

this series has made me want one. any idea what a stead mpg is for these on an A road?

[@StefABtv]

Haha thanks! I’ve never checked mpg on it to be honest lol. If you drive sensibly it lasts for ever 😂

[@lukec72]

Looks like so much fun! I would also be interested in your MPG any update on this?

[@Matt-ee7dh]

Hi Mate, Can you help. After watching your video 2 years ago i also got Ian to remap my Brabus 451. Now 2 years on its having massive issues starting and also seems to be overfueling. Just wondering if your 451 is still running ok as i cant seem to get hold of Ian for some reason. Cheers

[@BigPerformance]

Thats not true. Phone works, emails still work. Seem to remember speaking to you a little while ago !!

[@roflstomps324]

Cool. Only 113.73 HP less than a quad you can buy in Canada - stock.

[@neg8098]

You miss the point

[@roflstomps324]

@@neg8098 lol. No, I get it completely. I am merely pointing out a ludicrous fact.

[@stpfs9281]

@@roflstomps324 Tesla ludicrous!

[@benzinapaul7416]

How's it handle and ride etc and what's stability like on motorway at 85mph?

[@StefABtv]

Handles ok, firm ride and can throw it a bit but have to be careful of under steer if yin go in to a corner too hot lol

[@carlosfandango2419]

Can't beat those pretendy smiles, all over KZbin.

[@StefABtv]

Nothing “pretendy” there

[@weeb121]

Lmao hell yeah buddy thats sweet 😂😂👍

[@StefABtv]

Haha it’s a good laugh!

[@weeb121]

@@StefABtv Oh yeah buddy 😄

[@zyberteq]

I gotta get this done on my Roadster

[@StefABtv]

Do it :)

[@zyberteq]

@@StefABtv I'm in the Netherlands though, so maybe Smart Specialist Lunteren can help me. Otherwise I'll just have to go on holiday in the UK ;) Also, you said the 82HP engine can go much higher as well, is this also true for the Roadster variant? because the Roadster does have a different engine than the ForTwo

[@jeroendaniel.5624]

@Jacques Hakvoort. I don't know if Frank from Smart Specialis Lunteren/Ede can do this but i know there's a Specialist in Stadskanaal that does remappings for Smart cars.

[@sidrens5292]

What is the new 0-62mph time now - comparison?

[@StefABtv]

Not sure in times but it’s a good second or so quicker I think

[@user-ro5ll9mp4c]

Why doesn't Thailand have a cute car like this?

[@paulforrester4057]

I bet the top speed limiter has gone too. Gets abit scary above 100-110mph

[@StefABtv]

It has but haven’t tried it. Need an autobahn 😂

[@stpfs9281]

@@StefABtv Could try it on a track...

[@deanadamedge]

Do you have 0-60 times and passing times?

[@MrChiptatum]

BY the way where is IAN from is his workshop in THE UK?

[@buggerlugz6753]

Do they do a bigger turbo replacement? ;)

[@StefABtv]

Yep

[@joelabore3282]

what does a remapping cost in the United States?

[@LWIAAE]

And what did your insurance have to say about adding nearly a third more power? I presume that you did inform them?

[@fcwennekers7588]

Hi, what kind of rpms are you looking at at highway speeds?

[@StefABtv]

Think it’s around 2800/ 3000k at 70mph

[@Lee.ELIXIR]

Remap of anything jumps anything into a different level FFS.....I had my 89 escort rs turbo remapped.... basically swapped my standard ECU with a remapped one with the guys in Dorking.... can't remember their names/trading name😅 But ......went out after a plug n play remapped ECU...twisted the boost....few tweaks....as we were driving........fkme... ..best few quid bhp/£ I've ever spent without breaking anyones bank . ... Along with a stainless steel pipe right through.....300quid....extra 30bhp from memory..... Job done...... Prepare to loose licence 👍🏽😞🤣👍🏽

[@anothercitizen4867]

Can you do this to a Chevy Spark manual?

[@StefABtv]

Not sure to be honest, best to email Ian

[@slayer21]

Damn I have a 2006 smart fortwo turbo and i'm going to buy a 2008 fortwo brabus convertible with only 60K Kms but I don't think I will be able to remap both the gearbox and engine on them since I can't send them to big performance nor I am close to him

[@carlyleroad]

Those Suprex engines are quite delicate - how much sooner do you reckon you’ll need a rebuild?

[@StefABtv]

Don’t know, time will tell lol

[@wpjohn91]

Are they known for being delicate under tune? How long do they last normally?

[@carlyleroad]

@@wpjohn91 When I had a Brabus Roadster I used to read about “when you rebuild” rather than “if you rebuild” along with the two types of rebuild generally available and which garages were the best to go to. The engines live fast and die young. Bloody good fun though!!!

[@Olberi]

451 Brabus has 999cc Mitsubishi engine.

[@ianbigg4325]

These are running an ultra reliable Mitsubishi engine, not a suprex engine . The suprex was only fitted to the 450 and 452 smarts

[@mgil1731]

Sounds like 996 turbo/GT2 ahah