1998 Honda Life III Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Honda Life III is 920 kg (2028 lbs), which is fairly lightweight, especially for its hatchback and kei car classification. This lightweight helps in fuel efficiency and agility in urban environments. Compared to typical compact hatchbacks, which can weigh anywhere between 1000 and 1300 kg (2205 to 2866 lbs), the Life III is on the lighter side, reflecting its small size and kei car regulations compliance.

The maximum weight, or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), for the Honda Life III is 1140 kg (2513 lbs). This figure includes the weight of the car itself plus passengers and cargo. For a small kei car, this weight rating reflects its design focus on economical urban transport with limited cargo and passenger capacity compared to larger vehicles, ensuring safe handling and performance.

Yes, the Honda Life III would fit comfortably into a standard garage. Typical garage sizes are around 2400 to 3000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches) wide and approximately 4800 to 6000 mm (189 to 236 inches) deep. At 3395 mm (133.5 inches) long and 1475 mm (58.1 inches) wide, the Life III's compact footprint means it easily fits, with ample space for opening doors and maneuvering inside most residential garages.

With a width of 1475 mm (58.1 inches), the Honda Life III is notably narrow, a common feature of kei cars designed for Japan’s tight roads and heavy urban traffic. This narrow width enhances maneuverability, allowing drivers to navigate congested streets and fit into narrow parking spaces more easily than wider vehicles. The slim profile makes the Life III particularly practical in dense city environments.

The height of the Honda Life III is 1605 mm (63.2 inches), which is relatively tall for a car of its length and width. This elevated roofline is typical of kei cars, optimizing vertical space to create a surprisingly roomy interior despite the compact exterior dimensions. The taller cabin benefits passengers by providing good headroom and an airy feel, enhancing comfort on shorter urban trips.

The Honda Life III comes equipped with 155/65 R13 tires. This tire size balances a small overall diameter with a moderately tall sidewall, which helps absorb road irregularities for a smoother ride on city streets. The relatively small 13-inch wheels contribute to lower unsprung weight and improve fuel efficiency, while still offering adequate grip and comfort for urban driving conditions.

Compared to the previous generation Honda Life (Life II), the Life III maintains a similar kei car footprint but features slight refinements in exterior dimensions aimed at maximizing interior space and improving aerodynamics. Although exact predecessor dimensions vary slightly by model year, the consistent 3395 mm length and narrow width are kei car standards. The Life III’s height and interior optimization reflect Honda’s effort to enhance passenger comfort without increasing the car's exterior bulk.

The Honda Life III's dimensions are fairly typical for kei cars produced in Japan between 1998 and 2003. With a length of 3395 mm, width of 1475 mm, and height of 1605 mm, it aligns closely with rivals like the Suzuki Wagon R and Daihatsu Move, which share similar compact footprints to comply with kei regulations. The Life III's slightly taller height often gives it a competitive edge in interior space, while its narrow width aids urban maneuverability.

The Honda Life III was marketed between 1998 and 2003 as a practical and efficient kei car primarily targeting urban drivers seeking an affordable, compact vehicle. Known for its tall, boxy design, it offered surprising interior space and flexibility for a small footprint. Its lightweight construction, efficient tires, and modest powertrain focused on economy rather than performance. The Life III was popular as an economical city commuter, especially in Japan, where kei cars benefit from tax and insurance advantages.