1976 Vauxhall Chevette Estate Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Vauxhall Chevette Estate is 885 kg (approximately 1952 lbs), which is quite light by modern standards. This lighter weight contributes positively to its drivability by enhancing fuel efficiency, agility, and ease of handling, especially in urban environments. The modest weight also means the vehicle can accelerate reasonably well for its engine size and offers a nimble feel on narrow roads and tight parking situations.

With a length of 4188 mm (164.9 inches), a width of 1570 mm (61.8 inches), and a height of 1323 mm (52.1 inches), the Vauxhall Chevette Estate comfortably fits into most standard residential garages. Standard garage dimensions are typically around 6 meters (196.85 inches) in length and 3 meters (118 inches) in width, so the Chevette Estate's compact dimensions ensure adequate clearance and ease of parking inside standard garages without requiring special accommodations.

The width of the Vauxhall Chevette Estate is 1570 mm (61.8 inches), which is relatively narrow compared to many modern station wagons. This narrow width provides an advantage for maneuverability in tight urban environments, making it easier to navigate narrow city streets and fit into smaller parking spaces. Drivers benefit from enhanced control and less risk of scraping or bumping into obstacles, which is ideal for the typical use case of a compact estate car.

While specific cargo volume data for the Vauxhall Chevette Estate is scant, given the car's overall dimensions and estate (station wagon) body style, it offers practical and reasonable cargo space for a vehicle of its era. The estate design allows for a flexible rear storage area behind the rear seats, ideal for transporting luggage, groceries, or small furniture items. Its compact size means it balances cargo space with a relatively small exterior footprint, enhancing utility without sacrificing ease of parking and driving.

The Vauxhall Chevette Estate has a height of 1323 mm (52.1 inches). This relatively low profile contributes to better aerodynamics and a sporty, sleek appearance for a station wagon. In practical terms, it ensures a lower center of gravity, aiding in handling and stability. Although it isn't as tall as some larger estates or SUVs, the height ensures that it's easier to enter and exit the vehicle and fits easily into parking garages and under low-rise car park ceilings.

The Vauxhall Chevette Estate was launched in 1976, expanding the Chevette lineup to include a station wagon body style. Compared to previous smaller hatchbacks and saloons, the Estate variant is longer to accommodate extra cargo space, with its length of 4188 mm being notably larger than the Chevette hatchback of that time. Weighing 885 kg, it remains relatively light despite the additional bodywork. This weight balance helped it maintain nimble handling while adding practical utility compared to its predecessor's more basic passenger-focused designs.

In comparison to similar station wagons from the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Vauxhall Chevette Estate is on the smaller and lighter end of the spectrum. Many competitors such as the Ford Escort Estate or the Volkswagen Golf Variant were comparable in length and width but often heavier due to more robust construction or larger engines. The Chevette Estate’s compact footprint and modest height set it apart as an economical and easy-to-maneuver choice, appealing to consumers seeking practicality without bulk.

The Vauxhall Chevette Estate's compact size, light weight (885 kg), and practical station wagon design made it an ideal vehicle for families and individuals in urban and suburban environments during its production period. Its manageable dimensions allowed for easy city driving, parking, and garage storage, while the estate body style offered flexible cargo capacity for daily errands, small-scale hauling, and weekend trips. The vehicle struck a balance of economy, versatility, and straightforward maintenance, making it a popular practical choice.

While the Vauxhall Chevette Estate was well-suited for driving conditions of its time with a compact body and curb weight of 885 kg, modern driving conditions might present some challenges. Its smaller size and lighter weight make it agile in city traffic but might offer less stability at very high speeds or in adverse weather compared to contemporary cars with advanced safety and stability systems. That said, for enthusiasts and those appreciating classic car usability, its dimensions remain practical for everyday urban use and nostalgic drives.