1987 Kia Capital Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Kia Capital measures 1705 mm (67.1 inches) in width. This width provides an optimal balance between cabin space and maneuverability. While not as wide as some mid-size cars, it allows room for comfortable seating of up to five occupants in a compact sedan footprint. Additionally, the relatively narrow width makes it easier to navigate tighter city streets and fitting into parking spaces, enhancing its practicality as a daily driver or commuter car.

The height of the 1987 Kia Capital is 1405 mm (55.3 inches). This relatively low profile improves aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to better fuel economy and reduced wind noise. It also complements the sedan's traditional styling. Interior headroom is adequate for average-sized passengers, although taller individuals might find the roofline somewhat limiting compared to taller vehicles like SUVs or station wagons.

The Kia Capital's curb weight ranges from 990 kg to 1080 kg (2183 to 2381 lbs). This lightweight profile positively influences fuel efficiency by requiring less energy to move the vehicle, which is ideal for budget-conscious drivers. Additionally, the relatively low weight enhances the car's agility and responsiveness, making for easier handling in urban driving. However, lighter weight might translate to a less cushioned ride compared to heavier sedans.

The maximum weight capacity for the Kia Capital is 1325 kg (2922 lbs). This includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus passengers and cargo. Knowing this limit is critical for safe vehicle operation since exceeding the maximum loaded weight can affect braking performance, suspension durability, and overall vehicle stability. For a sedan of this size, 1325 kg is a reasonable capacity for everyday family use or light cargo transport, ensuring balanced safety and comfort.

The Kia Capital uses 5J x 13 inch rims, paired with either 165/80 R13S or 185/70 R13 tire sizes. The 13-inch wheels are typical for compact sedans of the era, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling responsiveness. The narrower 165/80 tires generally offer a softer ride with better fuel efficiency, while the wider 185/70 tires improve grip and road holding, especially during cornering, albeit with a slightly firmer ride.

Yes, the Kia Capital sedan fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Standard single-car garages typically have internal dimensions around 2400 mm (8 feet) wide, 4800 mm (16 feet) long, and about 2100 mm (7 feet) high. With the Kia Capital's length ranging from 4430 to 4480 mm (174.4 - 176.4 inches), width of 1705 mm (67.1 inches), and height of 1405 mm (55.3 inches), it fits well within these dimensions, leaving enough clearance for doors to open and ease of entry and exit.

The 1987 Kia Capital, being the initial generation, does not have a direct predecessor model within its lineup since it marked Kia's introduction of this particular compact sedan. However, compared to similar compact cars Kia offered before, it presented a more refined and slightly larger option in terms of length and width. This expansion allowed for improved interior space and comfort, which was intended to appeal to buyers looking for a budget-friendly yet more spacious sedan option.

Compared to contemporaries like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Excel from the late 1980s, the Kia Capital falls right within the typical compact sedan size class. Lengths and widths are similar; for example, the Corolla of that time measured roughly 4300 to 4400 mm in length and around 1700 mm in width, closely matching the Kia. This makes the Capital competitive dimension-wise, offering comparable cabin space and maneuverability, though it tended to be priced more affordably.

The Kia Capital's moderate length (4430-4480 mm) and width (1705 mm) make it highly practical for urban driving and parking. Its compact footprint facilitates easier navigation through narrow streets and tight parking spaces often found in cities. Despite being compact, it retains sufficient passenger space and trunk capacity, making it a versatile option for small families or daily commuters. Additionally, the vehicle's light curb weight aids in fuel economy, which is an essential factor for city driving.