Let's not kid ourselves, when it comes to cars, size really does matter. Large or small, your needs and budget determines the type of car you buy. But what exactly are the standard dimensions of a car?
Length
How long or short is a standard car?
According to normal standards, the length of a car is usually measured from the front bumper to the rear bumper. Since there many types of cars, it is best to consider the length in range rather than a specific number.
Averagely, car length ranges from around 14 to 19 feet (4.3 to 5.8 meters). However, some small cars like compact sedans, can be as short as 13 feet (4 meters), and larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks can exceed actually 20 feet (6 meters) in length.
Width
The width of a car is a measure of how wide a car is. This is typically measured from one side mirror to the other. Generally car width ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 feet (1.7 to 2 meters). Of course, vehicles like sports cars and luxury vehicles, can be wider and compact cars can be narrower.
Height
The height of a car is usually measured from the ground to the highest point of its roof. Like other dimensions, car height varies depending on the type of vehicle and the purpose it serves. But averagely the height of a car ranges from around 4.5 to 6 feet (1.4 to 1.8 meters). Typically SUVs and trucks are much taller than other vehicles while compact and sports cars are much lower in height.
A Look At The Standard Dimensions For Different Types of Vehicles
Compact Cars
- Length: 14-15 feet (4.3-4.6 meters)
- Width: 5.5-6 feet (1.7-1.8 meters)
- Height: 4.5-5 feet (1.4-1.5 meters)
Full-Size Cars
- Length: 16-17 feet (4.9-5.2 meters)
- Width: 6-6.5 feet (1.8-2 meters)
- Height: 4.8-5.5 feet (1.5-1.7 meters)
Compact SUVs
- Length: 14-15 feet (4.3-4.6 meters)
- Width: 6-6.5 feet (1.8-2 meters)
- Height: 5-5.5 feet (1.5-1.7 meters)
Mid-Size SUVs
- Length: 15.5-17 feet (4.7-5.2 meters)
- Width: 6.2-6.7 feet (1.9-2 meters)
- Height: 5.2-5.8 feet (1.6-1.8 meters)
Full-Size SUVs
- Length: 17-18 feet (5.2-5.5 meters)
- Width: 6.5-7 feet (2-2.1 meters)
- Height: 5.5-6 feet (1.7-1.8 meters)
Pickup Trucks
- Length: 16-20 feet (4.9-6 meters)
- Width: 6.3-6.8 feet (1.9-2.1 meters)
- Height: 5.5-6.2 feet (1.7-1.9 meters)
Minivans
- Length: 16-18 feet (4.9-5.5 meters)
- Width: 6.5-7 feet (2-2.1 meters)
- Height: 5.8-6.2 feet (1.8-1.9 meters)
Please note that these are general dimensions and can vary depending on the specific make and model of the vehicle.
Factors Influencing Car Dimensions
Having considered standard car dimensions, let us consider some factors that influence vehicle sizes.
Type Of Vehicle & Purpose
Different types of vehicles have different dimensions to suit the purpose they are made for. A truck made to carry heavy load is designed to accommodate that. An SUV is designed for more passenger and cargo space and this definitely influences the dimensions of the vehicle.
Engine Size
A car with a larger engine will definitely require more space than one with a smaller engine. This can have an effect on the overall size of the vehicle.
Seating Capacity
Vehicles with increased seating capacity than the average 4-seaters definitely require more space. This can cause increase in the length and width of the car.
Design
Car manufacturers try to outdo one another with elegant and captivating designs when creating new vehicles to make them stand out. This can influence the dimensions of the car.
Advance Safety Features
Modern cars usually come with advanced safety features like airbags, crumple zones etc. This may impact the size of the vehicle.
Conclusion
The standard dimensions of cars vary for different types of vehicles. Factors like engine size, design, safety features, type and purpose of vehicle influence the size of the car or vehicle.
Understanding these factors and dimensions can help buyers make informed decisions and choose the right vehicle for their needs.
