Production | |
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Model Year: | 1985 |
Production Years: | 1985 - 1988 discontinued in 1988 |
Precise measurements of the 1985 Holden Barina MB I, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
Dimensions | |
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Length: | 3685 mm145.1 in12.1 ft |
Width: | 1545 mm60.8 in5.1 ft |
Height: | 1365 mm53.7 in4.5 ft |
Weight Specifications | |
Curb Weight: | 710 kg1565 lbs |
The Holden Barina MB I represents the first generation of Holden's subcompact hatchback, produced between 1985 and 1988. Designed as a practical and efficient city car, the Barina MB I features compact dimensions ideally suited to urban driving and tight parking spaces. Measuring 3685 mm (145.1 inches) in length, 1545 mm (60.8 inches) in width, and 1365 mm (53.7 inches) in height, this hatchback delivers a small footprint that enhances maneuverability without compromising interior usability. Weighing in at just 710 kg (1,566 lbs) curb weight, the Barina MB I emphasizes lightweight construction, which contributes to better fuel efficiency and nimble handling dynamics. This generation of Barina serves as an accessible and economical option within its segment, appealing to drivers seeking a straightforward, no-frills compact car. When compared with other vehicles of the mid-1980s subcompact category, the Barina MB I maintains competitive dimensions, balancing a reduced exterior size with sufficient internal space to comfortably accommodate passengers. Its hatchback configuration offers practical cargo flexibility, typical for cars in its class during this era. Overall, the Holden Barina MB I remains a significant model in Holden’s history as its entry-level hatchback, reflecting the automotive trends of the mid-80s with modest size, light weight, and urban-friendly design.
Discover the standout features that make the 1985 Holden Barina MB I a leader in its class
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The Holden Barina MB I, produced between 1985 and 1988, is a compact hatchback with precise dimensions designed for urban and suburban use. It measures 3685 mm (145.1 inches) in length, making it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces. Its width is 1545 mm (60.8 inches), providing a narrow profile suitable for narrow streets and parking spots. The car stands at a height of 1365 mm (53.7 inches), giving it a low center of gravity and a sporty, compact stance. These dimensions contribute to the overall agility and practicality of the vehicle during its production era.
The Holden Barina MB I has a curb weight of approximately 710 kg (1565 lbs). This relatively lightweight build plays a significant role in enhancing the car's fuel efficiency and handling characteristics. With less mass to move, the engine can operate more economically, making the Barina MB I a cost-effective option for city driving and daily commuting. Additionally, a lighter car typically offers more nimble handling, which benefits drivers navigating tight urban environments. The low weight also contributes to easier parking and reduces wear on tires and brakes.
Yes, the Holden Barina MB I's compact dimensions make it well suited for standard residential garages. Most typical garages are designed to accommodate vehicles significantly longer and wider than 3685 mm (145.1 inches) in length and 1545 mm (60.8 inches) in width. The Barina MB I's smaller size not only guarantees sufficient space for the vehicle itself but also provides extra room for storage or movement around the car inside the garage. Its relatively low height of 1365 mm (53.7 inches) also means that clearance won’t be an issue in most residential garages.
With a width of 1545 mm (60.8 inches), the Holden Barina MB I is narrower than many contemporary vehicles, which increases its ability to navigate congested city streets, tight parking lots, and narrow residential areas with ease. This narrow footprint helps reduce blind spots on each side, aiding the driver in tight maneuvers. However, a narrower width might mean less interior shoulder room compared to wider cars, but it significantly benefits drivers who prioritize agility and ease of parking. The Barina MB I is thus an ideal choice for urban drivers who require a small and responsive vehicle.
The Holden Barina MB I has a height of 1365 mm (53.7 inches), making it relatively low-slung among hatchbacks. This low profile lowers the car’s center of gravity, which improves stability and handling, especially when negotiating corners or during spirited urban driving. However, the trade-off can be slightly reduced interior headroom compared to taller hatchbacks or sedans. The low height does make getting in and out a bit easier for passengers due to the car’s compact design. Overall, the height balances sporty dynamics with a comfortable cabin size for its category.
Although the Holden Barina MB I is compact externally — 3685 mm (145.1 inches) long, 1545 mm (60.8 inches) wide, and 1365 mm (53.7 inches) tall — its interior space was designed for efficient use. As a hatchback, it offers flexible cargo space, with rear seats that can be folded to accommodate larger items. While the compact dimensions limit rear passenger legroom and shoulder space, they are adequate for short trips and urban errands. The car's design prioritized practicality and economy while maintaining enough comfort for everyday use in city driving scenarios.
The Holden Barina MB I replaced earlier Barina models that were slightly different in dimensions. Typically, compared to its predecessor, the MB I maintained a compact footprint but offered slight enhancements in length and width for better interior space and road presence. This generation was designed to be more modern and urban-friendly while retaining the nimble character of the Barina line. While exact predecessor dimensions vary depending on specific earlier models, the MB I generally balanced size with greater efficiency and practicality, improving upon earlier hatchback versions.
In the context of mid-1980s hatchbacks, the Holden Barina MB I stands out as one of the smaller and lighter vehicles. Many comparable cars from that era, such as certain versions of the Ford Fiesta or Suzuki Swift, share similar compact dimensions but may be slightly larger in length or width. The Barina’s relatively narrow width of 1545 mm (60.8 inches) and low weight of 710 kg (1565 lbs) afforded it excellent maneuverability and fuel economy. This size profile made it highly competitive among city cars and small hatchbacks, offering practicality without sacrificing ease of use.
The Holden Barina MB I from 1985-1988 was designed as a practical and efficient hatchback targeted at urban drivers. Its compact dimensions allowed for easy parking and handling, while its lightweight construction improved fuel economy. The MB I featured a boxy yet aerodynamic shape typical of 1980s hatchbacks, with simplistic styling cues. It incorporated a hatchback door for flexible cargo space and was known for its reliability and economical running costs. The interior was functional, focused on maximizing space within its compact shell, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious drivers navigating city environments.
The Holden Barina MB I's compact size (3685 mm long, 1545 mm wide, 1365 mm high) and light weight (710 kg) make it especially suited for urban commuting, short-distance travel, and city parking. Its small footprint enables drivers to easily navigate congested city streets and find parking spots that larger cars can't access. The light weight contributes to fuel efficiency and ease of handling, reducing fuel costs and improving driving confidence in tight spaces. It also makes maintenance and tire wear more manageable. Overall, the Barina MB I is beneficial for drivers seeking an economical, practical, and reliable small hatchback for daily urban use.
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