1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:1981
Production Years:1980 - 1982 discontinued in 1982
1470 mm57.9 in4.8 ft
L: 4732 mm186.3 in15.5 ft | W: 1722 mm67.8 in5.6 ft
Length
4732 mm186.3 in15.5 ft
Width
1722 mm67.8 in5.6 ft
Height
1470 mm57.9 in4.8 ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:4732 mm186.3 in15.5 ft
Width:1722 mm67.8 in5.6 ft
Height:1470 mm57.9 in4.8 ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1287 - 1332 kg2837 - 2937 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:1910 - 1935 kg4211 - 4266 lbs
Roof Load:100 kg220 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Size:6J x 14
Tire Size:175/88 R14 (W:175 | H:88 | D:14)
Useful Information

About 1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan

The Opel Commodore C Caravan, produced between 1980 and 1982, is a classic example of a mid-sized European station wagon from the early 1980s. This generation of the Commodore line offered a versatile and spacious vehicle aimed at families and individuals requiring more cargo space without sacrificing driving comfort. Measuring 4732 mm (186.3 inches) in length, the Commodore C Caravan strikes a balanced size that comfortably fits urban and suburban environments while providing ample interior volume. Its width of 1722 mm (67.8 inches) ensures a stable road presence and adequate shoulder room inside, while the height stands at 1470 mm (57.9 inches), contributing to a low profile and aerodynamic shape that enhances driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.

In terms of weight, the Commodore C Caravan presents a curb weight ranging from 1287 kg to 1332 kg (2837 to 2938 pounds), which reflects a robust build quality typical of Opel vehicles of this era. The maximum loaded weight varies between 1910 kg and 1935 kg (4210 to 4268 pounds), allowing for considerable passenger and cargo capacity. The roof load is rated at 100 kg (220 lbs), providing additional flexibility for carrying items like roof boxes or sports equipment, ideal for family trips or outdoor activities.

The wheel setup features 14-inch rims with a 6J width, paired with 175/88 R14 tires that offer a good balance between ride comfort and road grip, suitable for various driving conditions. The Opel Commodore C Caravan's practical yet stylish design, combined with its thoughtful dimensions and weight specifications, makes it a notable vehicle for enthusiasts and those researching classic station wagons. Its blend of European engineering, functional space, and reliable performance ensures it remains a distinguished model in Opel’s historical lineup.

Exceptional Features

1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan a leader in its class

Body Style

The Opel Commodore C Caravan features a versatile station wagon (estate) body style offering ample cargo space and practicality for families and long trips.

Engine Options

This model came with several engine options including inline-four and six-cylinder engines, ranging from 1.9L to 2.8L, providing a balance between performance and fuel economy.

Transmission

The 1981 Opel Commodore C Caravan was available with a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission, allowing drivers to choose their preferred driving experience.

Interior Features

The interior included comfortable seating with durable materials, spacious cabin layout, and basic amenities such as a radio and heating system, focusing on passenger comfort.

Suspension and Handling

Equipped with independent front suspension and a live axle rear suspension, the Commodore C Caravan offered stable handling characteristics suitable for various road conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.

The Opel Commodore C Caravan from 1981 measures 4732 mm (186.3 inches) in length, 1722 mm (67.8 inches) in width, and has a height of 1470 mm (57.9 inches). These dimensions highlight its status as a mid-sized station wagon of its era, offering ample space for passengers and cargo while maintaining a balanced and manageable exterior footprint. The vehicle's size ensures it fits well on roadways and parking areas typical for cars from the early 1980s, combining practicality with traditional design cues.

The curb weight of the Opel Commodore C Caravan ranges between 1287 kg and 1332 kg (approximately 2,837 to 2,936 pounds). This weight reflects the car's solid build as a station wagon, which balances the need for structural integrity with efficiency. A moderate curb weight like this generally leads to decent fuel economy for the time and a stable, comfortable ride. Heavier cars can sometimes sacrifice nimbleness, but the Commodore C Caravan's weight ensures it handles reliably while carrying passengers and cargo effectively.

The Opel Commodore C Caravan has a maximum permissible weight between 1910 kg and 1935 kg (approximately 4,210 to 4,266 pounds). This maximum weight rating includes the combined total of the vehicle's curb weight, passengers, cargo, and any additional load. With this loading capacity, the station wagon is well-suited for family use, longer trips, or transporting bulkier items. To maintain safety and vehicle longevity, staying within this weight limit is essential to avoid overloading the suspension or brakes.

The Opel Commodore C Caravan's dimensions—4732 mm (186.3 inches) length, 1722 mm (67.8 inches) width, and 1470 mm (57.9 inches) height—mean it generally fits comfortably into a standard garage. Typical residential garages have widths ranging from 2400 mm to 2700 mm (about 94.5 to 106.3 inches) and lengths from 4800 mm to 6000 mm (about 189 to 236 inches). Since the Commodore C Caravan falls well within these limits, it can be parked indoors without issues, which is beneficial for protection from weather and security.

The standard tire size on the Opel Commodore C Caravan is 175/88 R14, paired with rims sized at 6J x 14. The 175 mm tire width combined with the 14-inch rims reflects typical station wagon tire sizing of the early 1980s, offering a balance between comfort, road grip, and load carrying capacity. This tire and rim combination supports the vehicle’s handling characteristics and load requirements, contributing to a stable and smooth driving experience.

The Opel Commodore C Caravan can support a roof load of up to 100 kg (approximately 220 pounds). This roof load capacity allows for the attachment of roof racks or carriers for additional cargo such as luggage, bikes, or sporting equipment, which enhances the vehicle’s versatility for family outings or travel. However, it's important to adhere to this limit to maintain safe driving conditions, as excessive weight on the roof can affect vehicle stability, particularly in windy conditions or during sharp maneuvers.

Compared to its predecessor models, particularly the Commodore B Caravan, the Commodore C Caravan (1980-1982) exhibits some dimensional and weight changes emphasizing modernization and increased utility. The length of 4732 mm is modestly longer than earlier generations, providing more interior space and cargo capacity. The width of 1722 mm is fairly similar but may have slightly improved ergonomics and styling cues. Weight increased slightly to accommodate advances in safety and structural rigidity. Overall, the Commodore C Caravan presents a balanced evolution, offering improved practicality while maintaining the model's traditional station wagon roots.

When compared to similar mid-sized station wagons of the early 1980s like the Ford Granada Estate or the Volkswagen Passat Variant, the Opel Commodore C Caravan fits comfortably in the same category size-wise. With a length of 4732 mm (186.3 in) and width of 1722 mm (67.8 in), it is competitive, neither the smallest nor largest among peers. These competitors also offered similar roof load capacities and curb weights, making the Commodore C a practical and comparable option for families or users seeking a reliable wagon combining space and drivability.

The Opel Commodore C Caravan has an external height of 1470 mm (57.9 inches). This relatively low height for a station wagon of its time ensures it easily fits into garages and under most parking structures without clearance issues. A lower height also contributes positively to the car's aerodynamic profile and handling characteristics, while simplifying parking in more restrictive urban or residential settings. The manageable height adds to the overall convenience for users without compromising interior headroom significantly.

With a curb weight ranging from 1287 to 1332 kg (2,837 to 2,936 pounds), the Opel Commodore C Caravan sits comfortably within the typical weight range for early 1980s mid-sized station wagons. This weight facilitates decent fuel efficiency and ensures a solid, stable ride. The moderate weight contributes to balanced handling, allowing for reliable cornering and control without excessive body roll, which heavier wagons can suffer from. Overall, the vehicle strikes a good balance for drivers seeking steady road manners, making it a practical choice for everyday family use.

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