1970 Vauxhall Viva HC Dimensions, Size & Specs

Yes, the Vauxhall Viva HC fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With its length of 4138 mm (162.9 inches), width of 1643 mm (64.7 inches), and a height of 1348 mm (53.1 inches), it sits well below typical garage dimensions, which generally exceed 2.4 meters (7 feet 10 inches) in height and have widths greater than 2.5 meters (8 feet 2 inches). Its relatively low ride height of 127 mm (5 inches) ensures smooth entry and exit without clearance issues.

With a width of 1643 mm (64.7 inches), the Vauxhall Viva HC was considered compact yet adequately wide for its class during the 1970s. This width strikes a balance between interior comfort and exterior maneuverability, making it competitive with similarly sized sedans of that period. While some competitors were slightly wider, the Viva HC’s modest width helped with parking and urban driving.

The Vauxhall Viva HC has a curb weight of 817 kg (1801 lbs) and a maximum allowable weight of 1243 kg (2740 lbs). This relatively light weight contributed to nimble handling and efficient fuel consumption. The lighter mass helped deliver responsive driving dynamics and made the car economical to run, important qualities for drivers during the 1970s economic environment.

The Vauxhall Viva HC offers a luggage capacity of 346 liters (approximately 12.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. This storage space was practical for a small family sedan, providing enough room for everyday shopping, luggage for trips, or larger items when needed. It was a versatile feature that enhanced the car’s usability.

The Viva HC has a ride height or ground clearance of 127 mm (5 inches). This ground clearance is sufficient for typical road conditions found in urban and suburban areas during its production years. While not designed for rough terrain, this clearance offered a good balance between stable handling and the ability to clear speed bumps or minor road imperfections.

With a height of 1348 mm (53.1 inches), the Vauxhall Viva HC has a relatively low profile for a sedan of its time. This lower roofline contributed to a sportier appearance and helped improve aerodynamic efficiency, reducing wind resistance at speed. The low height also aided in lowering the car’s center of gravity, which typically benefits stability and handling.

Compared to its predecessor, the Viva HA, the Viva HC introduced in 1970 was slightly larger and featured more modern styling. The HC's dimensions, including its 4138 mm length and added width, offered improved interior space and comfort. Design-wise, the HC adopted cleaner lines and a more contemporary look reflective of automotive trends in the 1970s, improving both aesthetics and practicality.

The Vauxhall Viva HC fits well within the compact sedan segment of the 1970s. Its 4138 mm length and 1643 mm width were comparable to competitors such as the Ford Escort Mk1 and Hillman Avenger. While slightly smaller than some rivals, the Viva HC's dimensions allowed it to remain practical and easy to drive in tight spaces while having enough interior room for everyday use.

The relatively compact dimensions of the Viva HC, including its length of 4138 mm (162.9 inches) and width of 1643 mm (64.7 inches), made it ideal for urban environments. Its small footprint enhanced maneuverability in tight city streets, simplified parking, and reduced fuel consumption compared to larger vehicles. The car's moderate weight also contributed to efficient driving dynamics, making it a popular choice for city commuters of the 1970s.