1966 Vauxhall Viva HB Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Vauxhall Viva HB weighs between 771 kg and 939 kg (approximately 1700 to 2070 lbs) when curb weight is considered. Its maximum weight capacity reaches up to 1148 kg (about 2530 lbs). The relatively light curb weight contributes to better fuel efficiency and agile handling, while the maximum weight capacity defines the total load including passengers and cargo that the vehicle can handle safely.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Vauxhall Viva HB ranges from 120 mm to 127 mm (4.7 to 5.0 inches). This clearance provides a balanced driving experience, allowing the car to handle typical road irregularities without trouble, though it might require careful driving on very uneven surfaces or steep obstacles to avoid scraping the underbody.

The luggage capacity of the Vauxhall Viva HB varies between 346 liters and 453 liters (approximately 12.2 to 16.0 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. This capacity allows for a reasonable amount of cargo space for a small sedan from its era, making it suitable for everyday shopping needs or light travel luggage.

The Vauxhall Viva HB comes with standard rim sizes of 4J x 12 inches. These smaller 12-inch rims are typical for compact cars from the 1960s and contribute to a softer ride quality due to the higher-profile tires that these rims accommodate. They also aid in maintaining maneuverability and comfort over uneven road surfaces.

Yes, the Vauxhall Viva HB fits comfortably into a standard residential garage, as its length of 4094 mm (161.1 inches or about 13.4 feet), width of 1600 mm (63 inches), and height of 1338 mm (52.7 inches) are well within the typical garage dimensions which usually accommodate vehicles up to around 5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width. This compact footprint makes it a practical option for owners with standard garage facilities.

Compared to its predecessor, the original Vauxhall Viva HA, the Viva HB introduced in 1966 was generally similar in footprint but featured subtle updates in styling and interior space utilisation. The HB maintained a compact size, with dimensions around 4094 mm long and 1600 mm wide, evolving from the HA’s slightly smaller or comparable footprint. The design changes aimed to provide a fresher appearance and marginally improved practicality without significant enlargement, helping maintain nimble city driving characteristics.

The Vauxhall Viva HB holds well against its contemporaries, such as the Ford Escort Mk1 and Hillman Imp. With a length of around 4.1 meters, it is typical of compact sedans of the era. Its luggage capacity of up to 453 liters with seats folded offers competitive cargo space for a car of its class. The size and weights are balanced to provide efficient urban and suburban driving, and the larger tire/rim combination compared to some rivals may offer a smoother ride. Its compact size also means it is easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces compared to some mid-sized sedans of the time.

The Vauxhall Viva HB is a four-door sedan primarily designed to accommodate up to five occupants, typically with two front seats and a rear bench. The compact exterior dimensions translate into a reasonably comfortable interior for its class during the 1960s, with sufficient headroom and legroom for average-sized adults. Although space is tighter than modern sedans, it was typical for small family cars of its time and allowed adequate comfort for city driving and short to medium trips.

Featuring a curb weight between 771 kg and 939 kg (1700 to 2070 lbs), the Vauxhall Viva HB benefits from a relatively light body. This lower mass helps its engine offer sufficient responsiveness and fuel economy compared to heavier cars. The lighter weight reduces strain on the engine and improves acceleration and handling characteristics, making the car agile and economical for its era. This lightweight design was deliberate to cater to budget-conscious drivers looking for a practical and efficient daily driver.