1998 Tata Mint Dimensions, Size & Specs

Weighing in at a curb weight of 850 kg (1874 lbs), the Tata Mint is relatively lightweight compared to many other hatchbacks in its class. This lighter weight contributes positively to its fuel efficiency, as less mass requires less energy to move. Additionally, the manageable curb weight enhances nimble handling and makes for a more responsive driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go city traffic where agility is important.

The Tata Mint offers a luggage capacity of 280 liters (approximately 9.9 cubic feet), which is quite adequate for a compact hatchback. This trunk space comfortably accommodates daily shopping bags, small suitcases, or modest amounts of cargo, making it practical for routine errands or short trips. Its hatchback design allows for flexible loading options and can support the needs of small families or individuals with moderate luggage requirements.

Yes, the Tata Mint can comfortably fit into a standard home garage. Most standard garages are built with a minimum width of around 2.4 meters (8 feet) and length of approximately 5 meters (16.4 feet). With a length of 3.66 meters (12 feet), width of 1.63 meters (5.3 feet), and height of 1.48 meters (4.9 feet), the Tata Mint occupies less space than the typical garage dimensions, leaving ample room for opening doors and additional storage within the garage.

Equipped with tire sizes of 155/70 R13, the Tata Mint's tires contribute to a balance between comfort and handling. The 13-inch rim size supports nimble maneuvering and better control at city speeds, while the 155 mm width and 70% aspect ratio offer a cushioning effect that helps absorb road imperfections. These tire dimensions work well with the car’s light curb weight to deliver a smooth, stable ride without compromising fuel economy.

The Tata Mint does not have a direct predecessor as it was introduced as a unique model in 1998. However, in comparison with other Tata hatchbacks from that era, such as the Tata Indica introduced shortly after, the Mint was slightly smaller and lighter. This smaller footprint and curb weight made the Mint a more city-friendly vehicle, aimed primarily at younger or first-time car buyers looking for an affordable and compact hatchback.

When compared with similar hatchbacks from the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as the Maruti Suzuki 800 or Hyundai Santro, the Tata Mint holds its own as a compact and practical city car. For example, the Maruti 800's length was about 3330 mm (131 inches), making the Mint slightly longer but still within the small hatchback category. The Tata Mint tends to offer a bit more cabin and luggage space due to its slightly larger footprint, yet it maintains easy maneuverability similar to its rivals.

The overall footprint of the Tata Mint is moderately small due to its length of 3660 mm (144.1 inches) and width of 1625 mm (64 inches). This compact size allows the car to fit into tight parking spots that are common in urban settings. Its modest width also means navigating narrow streets and congested city traffic is more manageable. This makes the Mint an excellent choice for drivers who frequently deal with limited parking space and crowded city roads.

Standing at a height of 1480 mm (58.3 inches), the Tata Mint is designed to offer a comfortable and practical interior space while maintaining a low profile for aerodynamic efficiency. This height provides adequate headroom for average-sized adults, enhancing passenger comfort, particularly on longer drives. Additionally, the relatively low roofline contributes to good forward visibility for the driver, making it easier to see road conditions and obstacles in urban environments.

While the Tata Mint is primarily designed as a city car with a compact size and a luggage capacity of 280 liters (9.9 cubic feet), it can handle short to medium-distance travel reasonably well. Its lightweight and dimensions facilitate easy driving and parking on highways and rural roads. However, for extended long-distance journeys or family trips requiring substantial luggage space, the Mint might feel limited. Passengers might find the cabin space a bit snug for prolonged comfort when fully loaded, but it's an economical and practical option for everyday commuting and occasional road trips.