1998 Daewoo Matiz I Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Daewoo Matiz I has a lightweight design, with a curb weight of approximately 725 kilograms (1598 pounds). The maximum permissible weight, accounting for passengers and cargo, is 1210 kilograms (2667 pounds). This light curb weight aids fuel efficiency and handling, making it suitable for city commutes.

The Daewoo Matiz I offers a luggage capacity of 165 liters (5.8 cubic feet) under normal seating conditions. When the rear seats are folded, this capacity expands significantly to 625 liters (22.1 cubic feet). This versatility allows the Matiz to accommodate larger or bulkier items when needed, enhancing its practicality despite its small footprint.

A standard garage typically measures about 2400 to 3000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches) in width and 4800 to 6000 mm (189 to 236 inches) in length. Given the Daewoo Matiz I's compact size—3495 mm (137.6 inches) long and 1495 mm (58.9 inches) wide—it fits comfortably within standard garage dimensions, offering plenty of space around the vehicle for easy access and maneuvering.

The Daewoo Matiz I comes equipped with 13-inch rims, fitted with tires sized 145/70 R13. This tire size strikes a balance between ride comfort and handling agility suitable for a small hatchback, optimizing the car’s fuel efficiency and driving dynamics for urban environments.

The Daewoo Matiz I was the first generation of the model series, introduced in 1998; thus, it does not have an earlier production predecessor. It was designed as an entry-level city car emphasizing compact dimensions and affordability, setting a benchmark for small urban hatchbacks.

Compared to contemporary small hatchbacks like the Suzuki Alto or Fiat Seicento from the late 1990s, the Daewoo Matiz I offers similar compact dimensions, measuring 3495 mm (137.6 inches) in length. The width of 1495 mm (58.9 inches) and height of 1480 mm (58.3 inches) are also competitive, placing it well within the subcompact category. Its small size makes it highly maneuverable and suitable for city traffic but slightly smaller than some competitors, which may offer marginally more interior or cargo space.

Specific wheelbase and ground clearance figures for the Daewoo Matiz I (1998-2000) are not provided in the available specifications. However, typical small hatchbacks of this era usually feature a wheelbase around 2300 mm (approximately 90.6 inches) and ground clearance in the range of 140-160 mm (5.5-6.3 inches), helping balance ride comfort with city driving practicality.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Daewoo Matiz I is designed to maximize interior space efficiency. The boxy shape helps create reasonable headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers within its subcompact class. The car comfortably seats four adults and includes foldable rear seats to expand cargo space when needed. However, taller passengers or long-distance trips might find the space modest compared to larger vehicles.

With a curb weight of just 725 kg (1598 lbs) and compact dimensions, the Daewoo Matiz I benefits from excellent fuel efficiency and nimble handling. Its light weight means the engine doesn't have to work as hard, reducing fuel consumption and making it economical for daily urban driving. The small size enhances agility in traffic and ease of parking but may result in a less stable ride at very high speeds or rough roads compared to heavier vehicles.