1988 Toyota Lite Ace Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Toyota Lite Ace from this generation is approximately 1,100 to 1,300 kg (2,425 to 2,866 lbs), depending on the specific configuration and options. Regarding cargo capacity, the Lite Ace minivan offers versatile interior space that can be expanded by folding down or removing rear seats, which makes it highly practical for carrying goods or luggage. Exact cargo volume varies, but it comfortably supports small cargo-hauling needs typical of a compact family or business vehicle.

Yes, the Toyota Lite Ace from the 1988 to 1996 generation generally fits comfortably inside a standard garage. Given its length of about 4.26 meters (167.7 inches) and width of 1.6 meters (63 inches), it is smaller than many modern SUVs and vans. Standard garage sizes typically range around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length and 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width, so the Lite Ace's dimensions are well within these limits, allowing easy parking and maneuvering inside a conventional residential garage.

The Toyota Lite Ace of this era offers a surprisingly spacious interior compared to many other compact minivans produced during the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it is more compact in external dimensions, it maximizes interior volume through a boxy, tall design that boosts headroom and cargo flexibility. It typically accommodates up to seven or eight passengers depending on seating configuration and provides flexible folding or removable seats, making it competitive with similar minivans like the Nissan Vanette or Mitsubishi L300 in terms of passenger comfort and cargo versatility.

The Toyota Lite Ace from the 1988-1996 generation has an approximate height of 1,870 mm (73.6 inches), which contributes to its roomy interior space and ease of entry and exit for passengers. Ground clearance is generally around 160 mm (6.3 inches), providing enough clearance for urban and light off-road conditions without compromising stability. This combination makes the vehicle practical for varied driving environments, balancing comfort and functionality.

The width of the 1988-1996 Toyota Lite Ace is about 1,600 mm (63 inches), which is relatively narrow for a minivan. This narrower width significantly improves its urban drivability by making the vehicle easier to navigate through congested city streets, tight parking spaces, and narrow lanes. It also reduces the risk of scraping parked cars or curbs during tight maneuvers, making it ideal for drivers frequently dealing with crowded urban settings.

Compared to the predecessor, the 1984-1988 Lite Ace generation, the 1988-1996 model retained a similar overall concept but featured modest dimensional changes. The newer generation is generally a bit more refined in appearance and slightly longer and taller, offering slightly improved interior space and comfort. The width remained nearly the same to preserve maneuverability, but updates in design allowed better use of cabin space. Overall, the 1988-1996 generation improved practicality and aerodynamics while maintaining the compact footprint favored by customers.

When compared to the Nissan Vanette of the same era, the Toyota Lite Ace is quite similar in terms of its compact dimensions and boxy shape that maximizes interior space. Both vehicles offer similar lengths around 4.2 to 4.4 meters and widths near 1.6 meters, focusing on practicality and ease of urban driving. The Lite Ace is typically known for its reliability and efficient use of space, while the Vanette might offer variations with larger cargo options. Functionally, both cars serve well as people movers or light cargo vans, but Toyota’s reputation for durability often gives the Lite Ace an edge in long-term ownership.

The Toyota Lite Ace from this generation features an approximate wheelbase of 2,200 to 2,300 mm (86.6 to 90.6 inches). This relatively moderate wheelbase helps balance interior cabin space with maneuverability. A longer wheelbase typically improves ride comfort by reducing pitch and increasing stability at speed, while a shorter wheelbase benefits agility. The Lite Ace’s wheelbase is a compromise that provides stable handling while maintaining the tight turning radius needed for city driving, contributing to a comfortable yet practical minivan driving experience.

The Toyota Lite Ace (1988-1996) minivan typically offered seating configurations accommodating between 7 to 8 passengers. The design focused on flexibility, with rear seats that could be folded down or removed entirely to increase cargo space as needed. The typical layout consisted of three rows: two or three front seats, a middle row with bench or individual seats, and a rear bench seat. This versatility made the Lite Ace suitable not only for family use but also for small business purposes, allowing easy transformation between passenger transport and cargo hauling.