1977 Volkswagen Derby (86) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Volkswagen Derby (86) has a curb weight of approximately 700 kg (1543 lbs), which refers to the vehicle's weight without passengers or cargo. Its maximum permissible weight, often called gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), is about 1130 kg (2491 lbs). This means the car can safely carry passengers and cargo weighing up to 430 kg (948 lbs) in addition to its base weight.

The Volkswagen Derby (86) offers a luggage capacity of 515 liters (18.2 cubic feet), which is quite generous for a compact sedan from the late 1970s. This capacity allows for considerable storage space for luggage, groceries, or other cargo. Compared to similar cars of its era, the Derby's 515-liter trunk is practical and competitive, supporting its design focus on functionality and day-to-day usability.

The ground clearance of the Volkswagen Derby (86) is 97 mm (3.8 inches). This relatively low ride height reflects its sedan design, prioritizing stability and handling on paved roads. While this clearance is suitable for regular city and highway driving, it makes the car less ideal for rough terrains or off-road conditions, providing minimal buffer against road obstacles.

The Volkswagen Derby (86) is equipped with 13-inch rims sized at 4.5J x 13. These modestly sized rims complement the car's compact proportions, contributing to a smooth ride and balanced handling. Such rim sizes were common for small sedans in the late 1970s, balancing tire availability, cost, and comfort.

Yes, the Volkswagen Derby (86) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garage dimensions are about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) wide and 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet) long, while the Derby's length is 3.914 meters (12.84 feet) and width 1.557 meters (5.11 feet). Its compact height (1.351 meters or 4.43 feet) further ensures ample clearance. This makes parking and storage practical for most home garages without requiring special accommodations.

The Volkswagen Derby (86), produced from 1977 to 1981, largely maintains similar compact dimensions typical of its class, but minor refinements were made compared to its predecessor. While exact predecessor dimensions vary depending on region, the (86) generation slightly improved in length and luggage capacity, emphasizing practical usability. Overall, the change focused on modest updates rather than radical redesigns, retaining the original’s compact footprint but enhancing interior and trunk space.

When compared with other compact sedans from the late 1970s, the Volkswagen Derby (86) is quite competitive in size and practicality. Its length of 3.914 meters and generous 515-liter trunk space often exceeded similar cars in its class, offering better luggage capacity. The relatively low weight at 700 kg also contributed to nimble performance and fuel efficiency. While not the widest, its dimensions provided a comfortable cabin for a small sedan without compromising manageability, making it a strong contender among compact European sedans of its time.

The Volkswagen Derby (86) is a four-door sedan, a body style popular during its production years (1977-1981) for its practical passenger access and spacious trunk. This body style targeted urban drivers and small families looking for economical yet functional transportation. Its sedan configuration provided a good balance of passenger comfort, cargo space, and ease of driving, making it suitable for both city commutes and light travel.

The Volkswagen Derby (86) was produced between 1977 and 1981. This four-year production period reflects its role as a transitional small sedan in Volkswagen’s lineup, bridging design and engineering improvements of that era. Today, due to its age and limited production years, the Derby is considered a classic car with limited availability on the used market. It holds interest for collectors and enthusiasts interested in vintage European compact cars, but one should expect scarcity and the need for restoration when acquiring.