1988 HSV Calais SV88 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The HSV Calais SV88 has a curb weight of 1379 kg (approximately 3040 lbs). This relatively moderate weight for a sedan of its size contributes to a responsive driving experience, maintaining agility while ensuring stability on the road. A balanced weight helps the suspension and drivetrain perform efficiently, offering a mix of comfort and sportiness.

The luggage capacity of the HSV Calais SV88 is 398 liters (about 14.05 cubic feet). This storage space is ample for most daily needs, such as grocery shopping, luggage for a weekend trip, or sports equipment. The trunk design typically allows for easy loading and unloading, making it practical for both everyday use and longer journeys.

Yes, the HSV Calais SV88 can fit comfortably inside a standard residential garage. Most single-car garages measure approximately 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in depth. Given the car’s length of 4766 mm (4.77 meters or 15.65 feet) and width of 1722 mm (1.72 meters or 5.65 feet), it fits well within these dimensions, leaving extra space for opening doors and maneuvering safely.

The HSV Calais SV88 comes with 16-inch rims sized 7J x 16 and uses tires sized 205/55 R16. These tires strike a good balance between sporty handling and ride comfort, offering responsive cornering without sacrificing too much cushioning from road imperfections. The relatively moderate tire width (205 mm) and sidewall height (55 ratio) contribute to stable driving dynamics and preferable grip, especially for a performance-oriented sedan of its era.

With a width of 1722 mm (67.8 inches), the HSV Calais SV88 is somewhat narrower compared to many modern mid-size sedans that often exceed 1800 mm (70.9 inches). While this narrower width may slightly limit shoulder room inside compared to newer models, it enhances maneuverability and parking ease in tighter urban environments. The interior space is still adequate for five passengers, typical of its sedan class during the late 1980s.

Compared to its predecessors, the HSV Calais SV88 maintained a similar overall footprint but with subtle refinements. Length and width stayed consistent with gradual improvements in aerodynamics and cabin packaging. These incremental dimension changes reflect HSV’s focus on maintaining the familiar luxury sedan feel while introducing sportier performance and styling elements unique to the SV88 generation.

In the late 1980s, the HSV Calais SV88's size was typical for executive sedans, closely comparable to competitors like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon in Australia, as well as mid-size European sedans. Its length of 4766 mm (187.6 inches) and width of 1722 mm (67.8 inches) gave it a strong road presence but without the bulk of larger luxury sedans, making it competitive for buyers seeking a sporty yet practical family car.

With a height of 1368 mm (53.9 inches), the HSV Calais SV88 has a relatively low profile that aids aerodynamic efficiency and gives it a sporty stance. The curb weight of 1379 kg (about 3040 lbs) balances durability with not being overly heavy, which positively affects fuel consumption. The modest height also means fitting in low-clearance parking garages is usually not an issue, while the weight is not so high as to severely impact efficiency or handling.

The HSV Calais SV88’s dimensions, such as a length of just under 4.77 meters (15.65 feet) and width of 1.72 meters (5.65 feet), make it relatively maneuverable for a sedan of its class. This compactness aids navigation through tight city streets, easier parking in urban settings, and generally more convenient daily usability without sacrificing passenger space or cargo capacity. It blends classic sedan comfort with practicality for city drivers.