1981 Volkswagen Santana (32B) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) has a curb weight ranging from 931 to 1007 kilograms (2052 to 2220 pounds), depending on specific model trims and optional equipment. Its maximum weight capacity lies between 1440 to 1460 kilograms (3175 to 3219 pounds), which includes passengers, cargo, and added load. This weight balance assures adequate performance while maintaining efficiency and drivability.

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) offers a luggage capacity of 535 liters (approximately 18.9 cubic feet). This generous trunk space is well-suited for a sedan of its size, allowing ample room for travel bags, shopping, and everyday cargo needs. It provides practical storage that complements the car's overall usability for families or individuals.

The roof load capacity of the Volkswagen Santana (32B) is 75 kilograms (165 pounds). This means the car can safely support roof-mounted carriers, luggage racks, or sports equipment up to this weight limit. This capability makes it versatile for users who need to transport bulky items without compromising safety or handling.

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) is equipped with 5.5J x 13 inch rims paired with tires sized 185/70 R13. This combination provides a good balance of ride comfort, handling, and road grip for the sedan's size and performance characteristics. It was a common setup for vehicles of this era in its class.

Yes, the Volkswagen Santana (32B) fits comfortably into most standard residential garages. With its length of 4545 mm (179 inches) and width of 1695 mm (66.7 inches), it is compact enough to allow easy parking and movement inside typical urban garages with average dimensions around 2.4 to 2.7 meters (8 to 9 feet) wide and over 5 meters (16.5 feet) deep. Its moderate height of 1400 mm (55.1 inches) further facilitates indoor accommodation without clearance issues.

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) introduced in 1981 was a modern and somewhat larger evolution compared to its predecessors, particularly the original Volkswagen Passat and earlier Santana versions in certain markets. The 4545 mm length and 1695 mm width marked an increase over older models, offering greater interior space and trunk capacity. The design adhered to contemporary sedan proportions, making it more competitive in its segment by providing increased comfort and utility while maintaining manageable dimensions for daily use.

In the 1980s, the Volkswagen Santana (32B) size was competitive within the midsize sedan market. Its length of 4545 mm (179 in) and width of 1695 mm (66.7 in) placed it close to rivals like the Toyota Camry (first generation) and Ford Sierra, which had similar dimensions. While some competitors were slightly longer or wider, the Santana balanced compactness with interior space effectively. Its luggage capacity of 535 liters was a strong point, offering relatively generous storage compared to many peers, contributing to its appeal as a practical family sedan.

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) offers a spacious interior for its class, characterized by a length of 4545 mm and relatively broad width of 1695 mm, which translates into adequate shoulder and legroom for front and rear passengers. Combined with a moderate height of 1400 mm, the sedan provides a comfortable seating position and headroom for average adults. The well-designed cabin layout and thoughtful ergonomic details enhance long-distance comfort, making it suitable for family use or professional driving needs.

The Volkswagen Santana (32B) was a significant model for Volkswagen during the 1980s, representing a reliable and straightforward midsize sedan that emphasized practicality, robustness, and ease of maintenance. Produced from 1981 to 1988, it was known for its solid build quality, balanced driving dynamics, and spacious interior. The vehicle was often favored in markets requiring durable sedans with good fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. Its relatively modest dimensions and weight made it accessible for everyday urban and suburban use, while a decent luggage capacity catered to various lifestyle needs.