1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino (Sedan Pickup, facelift 1981) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino measures 1776 mm (69.9 inches or about 5.8 feet) in width. This moderate width allows the vehicle to comfortably fit into many urban and suburban spaces without being overly cumbersome. While wider than many compact cars, it maintains good maneuverability typical of vehicles from the early 1980s. The width also provides a comfortable interior for passengers. However, when parking, especially in tight city garages, drivers should be mindful of this width, though it is generally manageable.

The Malibu El Camino facelift 1981 stands at 1408 mm tall (55.4 inches or about 4.6 feet). This relatively low height for a pickup truck style vehicle results in a lower center of gravity, which can enhance stability and handling during driving. The lower profile also aids in reduced wind resistance, potentially improving fuel efficiency. Additionally, at this height, garage door clearances and standard parking structures are typically not an issue, making it convenient for daily use.

The curb weight of the 1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino is 1472 kg (3245 lbs). This moderate weight contributes to fairly agile handling for a vehicle combining sedan and pickup truck features. The weight helps provide a stable ride, though it can affect acceleration and fuel economy when compared to lighter passenger sedans. However, considering its dual-purpose design and era, the weight is optimized to balance between performance, load capacity, and efficiency.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Chevrolet Malibu El Camino facelift model from 1981-1983 is 160 mm (6.3 inches). This clearance is sufficient for typical urban and highway driving and allows for modest off-road excursions or gravel roads without scraping the undercarriage. While this is lower than many modern pickup trucks, it supports better handling and a smoother ride over paved surfaces, aligning with the vehicle’s hybrid sedan and pickup design.

Equipped with 6.0J x 14 rims and 205/75 R14 tires, the 1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino offers a tire size that balances comfort and durability. The 205 mm width provides adequate contact with the road for stability and traction, while the profile height (75 aspect ratio) ensures a cushioned ride. These tire and rim dimensions were appropriate for the vehicle’s weight and design, enabling it to handle various road conditions while maintaining ride comfort.

Yes, the Chevrolet Malibu El Camino facelift 1981 can typically fit into a standard residential garage. With dimensions of 5121 mm (16.8 feet) in length, 1776 mm (5.8 feet) in width, and a height of just 1408 mm (4.6 feet), it is compact enough to fit comfortably inside a typical garage space designed for passenger vehicles. Standard single-car garage widths usually range between 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) wide and roughly 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) deep, so this vehicle’s size is well within those parameters, allowing for easy storage.

The 1982 Malibu El Camino facelift model retained much of the size and functional characteristics of its predecessors produced between 1978 and 1980 but featured styling and minor improvements in aerodynamics and comfort. In terms of dimensions, the length, width, and height remained largely consistent, preserving its identity as a sedan pickup hybrid with a versatile cargo bed. The facelift focused more on updated aesthetics and improved ride qualities rather than dramatic size changes, making it a practical evolution rather than a full redesign.

Compared to similar sedan pickup trucks of the early 1980s, such as the Ford Ranchero or Dodge Rampage, the 1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino stands out due to its slightly longer length and balanced dimensions. Its 5121 mm length gives it a larger cargo area, while the width and height dimensions contribute to a stable and car-like driving experience. While competitors might offer different powertrains or style cues, the Malibu El Camino is recognized for combining passenger comfort and utility effectively, making it competitive within its market segment.

The 1982 Chevrolet Malibu El Camino is unique as it blends the comfort and handling of a sedan with the utility of a pickup truck. Unlike traditional pickups, its car-based chassis and lower height (1408 mm or 55.4 inches) offer a smoother driving experience and better fuel economy. With a sizable cargo bed and moderate ground clearance (160 mm or 6.3 inches), it suits drivers who need utility without sacrificing daily driving comfort. Its design is a classic example of the sedan pickup style popular in the 1970s and early 1980s, combining practicality and style.