1978 Vauxhall Royale Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Vauxhall Royale has a curb weight of 1370 kg (3020 lbs) and a maximum weight capacity of 1900 kg (4189 lbs). This weight reflects the car’s substantial build quality and robust construction typical for executive sedans of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The weight distribution contributes to stable handling, smooth ride quality, and a solid feel on highways, although it may result in moderate fuel consumption and requires strong braking performance.

The Vauxhall Royale sedan offers a luggage capacity of 394 liters (13.9 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. This volume allows for accommodating a significant amount of cargo, making it practical for long-distance trips or transporting larger items. While not exceptionally large by modern standards, it was competitive for an executive sedan during its production years.

The Vauxhall Royale measures 4877 mm (192.0 inches) in length and 1728 mm (68.0 inches) in width. Most standard domestic garages typically range between 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length and about 2.5 meters (8 feet) in width. Therefore, the Royale will generally fit comfortably in a typical single-car garage, though it will occupy most of the space lengthwise and widthwise. Owners should consider garage size carefully, especially if additional space for storage or other vehicles is required.

The Vauxhall Royale has a ground clearance of 152 mm (6.0 inches), which provides a balanced height for handling typical road conditions without compromising stability. Its roof load capacity is 80 kg (176 lbs), allowing drivers to carry additional cargo such as roof boxes or sporting equipment carefully affixed to the roof racks without risking structural or handling issues.

Compared to its predecessors, the Vauxhall Royale introduced in 1978 presented a more modern and refined design, with slightly larger dimensions on some fronts to offer enhanced passenger comfort and luggage space. While specific predecessor models vary, the Royale generally maintained an executive sedan class size but improved in aerodynamics and interior space utilization, reflecting automotive trends of the late 1970s and early 1980s.

In comparison to similar luxury and executive sedans of the late 1970s and early 1980s, such as the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz W123, the Vauxhall Royale stands as a competitive entrant with a length of 4877 mm (192.0 inches) and curb weight of 1370 kg (3020 lbs). While some competitors might be slightly larger or heavier, the Royale’s dimensions strike a balance between spaciousness and road handling, making it a practical choice in its segment.

The Vauxhall Royale is classified as a sedan. It features a four-door saloon body style, which was typical for executive cars of the era aiming to offer comfort and practicality. This design suits passengers who seek a formal and spacious vehicle, suitable for both personal use and professional or corporate settings.

With a ride height (ground clearance) of 152 mm (6.0 inches), the Vauxhall Royale offers an adequate clearance for most urban roads, highways, and mildly uneven surfaces. This height is sufficient to prevent scraping over common road obstacles and speed bumps without compromising the vehicle’s stability or aerodynamic performance, enabling confident driving on a variety of road types.

The design and dimensions of the Vauxhall Royale were influenced by market demands for executive sedans that combined luxury, performance, and space efficiency. Between 1978 and 1987, automotive manufacturers emphasized aerodynamics, improved passenger comfort, and practicality. The Royale’s nearly 4.9-meter length and 1.7-meter width reflect a trend toward roomy interiors and stable rides, while the relatively low height of 1366 mm (53.8 inches) contributed to sleek styling and reduced wind resistance. Furthermore, considerations such as garage compatibility, urban maneuverability, and luggage space also shaped its proportions.