1989 Metrocab Taxi Series I Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Metrocab Taxi Series I has a curb weight of approximately 1765 kg (3891 lbs), which is the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo. Its maximum permissible weight (gross vehicle weight) is 2220 kg (4894 lbs), which includes passengers, cargo, and fuel. This relatively heavy weight reflects its robust construction designed for commercial taxi use. The weight affects fuel efficiency and acceleration, but the vehicle's suspension and engine are tuned to handle this load efficiently for urban taxi operation.

With a width of 1760 mm (69.3 inches) and a height of 1750 mm (68.9 inches), the Metrocab Taxi Series I is taller than many conventional hatchbacks, which usually have heights closer to 1450-1500 mm. This increased height offers superior headroom and an airy cabin feel, ideal for passengers and their luggage. The width is moderately wider than many compact hatchbacks, contributing to a stable ride and comfortable seating layout inside, making it well-suited to taxi service where passenger comfort and accessibility are priorities.

Standard residential garages typically accommodate vehicles up to around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) in width and 2100 mm (82.7 inches) in height, with length usually being the limiting factor. The Metrocab Taxi Series I measures 4505 mm (177.4 inches) in length, 1760 mm (69.3 inches) in width, and 1750 mm (68.9 inches) in height. Consequently, it can comfortably fit within most garage width and height dimensions, but the length might be a tight fit in very small garages, especially those closer to 4.3 meters (14 feet) or shorter. Generally, owners will find their garages accommodate this vehicle with adequate clearance.

The Metrocab Taxi Series I is equipped with 5J x 16 inch rims and tires sized at 175/80 R16. The 16-inch wheel diameter is relatively large for a taxi vehicle of its era, contributing to a smoother ride over uneven urban roads and better stability. The tire width of 175 mm (approximately 6.9 inches) with an 80% aspect ratio indicates taller sidewalls, which improve shock absorption and ride comfort by cushioning impacts. This setup strikes a practical balance between good handling, tire longevity, and passenger comfort, essential in continuous city driving scenarios.

The Metrocab Taxi Series I's hatchback body style emphasizes practicality and ease of access. Hatchbacks typically offer a large rear door that opens upwards, allowing convenient loading and unloading of luggage and larger items. For a taxi, this is particularly beneficial as it streamlines passenger luggage handling. Additionally, the tall roofline and roomy interior space common to this type of body style enhance passenger comfort, making the vehicle well-suited for urban taxi duties where versatility and passenger convenience are essential.

Compared to earlier Metrocab models before the Taxi Series I, the 1991-2000 version was significantly updated with a more modern design and slightly increased dimensions to enhance interior space and comfort. While earlier generations typically had more utilitarian and boxier shapes, the Taxi Series I incorporated refined styling with a more aerodynamic form. Size-wise, the increase in length and height expanded passenger and luggage capacity, reflecting advancements in comfort without compromising the maneuverability necessary for tight urban environments.

The Metrocab Taxi Series I's dimensions (4505 mm length, 1760 mm width, 1750 mm height) position it similarly to other London-style taxis of the 1990s, such as the Austin FX4 and early TX models. Its relatively generous height and hatchback body style offer competitive passenger headroom and easy loading. While slightly heavier, it remains comparable in footprint and functionality. It places strong emphasis on passenger space, comfort, and urban operability, maintaining the traditional taxi characteristics but with updated design features for the era.

Despite its solid and somewhat substantial size, the Metrocab Taxi Series I was designed with urban use in mind. Its length of 4505 mm (177.4 inches) and moderate width allow it to navigate narrow city streets and fit in typical parking spots with relative ease. The vehicle's tall body style also facilitates good visibility for the driver, aiding maneuverability in congested environments. This combination of size and design reflects the vehicle’s role as a dedicated city taxi, built for practicality without sacrificing passenger space.

The Metrocab Taxi Series I's weight of 1765 kg (3891 lbs) combined with its larger size results in a vehicle optimized more for durability and passenger comfort than for high fuel efficiency or sporty performance. The vehicle's heavy curb weight is a factor that tends to reduce fuel economy, typical for vehicles constructed to endure the demands of constant city driving and frequent stops. However, the weight and dimensions enable stability and a smooth ride, with the engine and chassis tuned to balance power and efficiency in typical taxi operating conditions.