1992 Ardent Smoke GT
(Excerpt from automotive magazine follows…)
Over the decades, nameplates come and go. Some are recognized universally, some pass into obscurity, while others end their storied careers with a tarnished reputation. This third category is particularly saddening all around. When representatives from Ardent showed up last month with another Smoke, we were worried.
Though last year’s debut of the third-generation Ardent Smoke was met with great apathy and even vitriol from enthusiasts, Ardent appears to be at least attempting to make amends this year with the new GT trim. Don’t get us wrong, this still isn’t the luxurious touring coupe that your parents owned in the 70’s. But it’s a definite nod towards its heritage, if not a big step in regaining the lost performance. We spent a week with this new tester, a Smooth Cherry Metallic Smoke GT.
The new Smoke GT boasts a bigger 2.2 liter engine, with twin cams and new variable valve technology. With 125 horsepower, it nearly doubles the flat-out anemic output of the 1.9 liter in the base and LS trims. 5-speed manual is standard, with an optional 3-speed auto available.
Just about every aspect of the GT is improved over the lower trim levels, as well. The interior includes charcoal cloth high-back buckets with red sport stitching. Both side and thigh bolsters on the front seats provide and added measure of comfort and sporty feel. Power windows, locks, and mirrors are standard on the GT, as is a 100 watt 4-speaker AM/FM cassette with equalizers.
Visually, the GT differs from its junior cousins by way of its “power bulge” hood, 15" alloy wheels, and front fender detailing.
Driving the Smoke GT is also much more fulfilling than the base model. The 2.2 liter revs willingly, and powers the coupe to 60 in under 11 seconds, while still averaging 29 MPG. 4-wheel antilock brakes, with bigger front rotors, also help assure quicker, straighter stops.
Of course, these improvements don’t come cheap. The Smoke GT’s list price of $10110 more than $2000 over that of a base Smoke. But as far as we’re concerned, that is money very well spent.
…but it will always be cheerful! 
