Different automakers design and engineer their vehicles differently. Some things remain constant, despite the many differences between vehicles. There is a standard range of average car lengths, though the length of your car may vary, whether it be a Ford, Chevrolet, Mazda, or Toyota. The average length of a car is close to 14.7 feet.
Car models obviously impact the length of a vehicle, and large SUVs will never be the same size as compact cars, but the average 14.7 feet still applies to many different cars. There are eight size classes when it comes to vehicle sizes. There are mini cars, small cars, mid-size, full-size, small SUVs, large SUVs, small pickups, and large pickup trucks.
How Long Is a Car, and Does Size Really Matter?
The exact length of your car may differ from the average lengths allotted to different classes, but they generally account for most vehicles on the market. Why does car size matter? Size is important if you live or commute to an area with limited parking spaces. Different types of cars, such as city cars, are better suited to congested areas. Sports cars are less likely to be parked on crowded city streets, because the space between cars is so limited.
Car dimensions are extremely important, because the last thing you want to do as a consumer is buy a vehicle that is so big you can't park it anywhere. If you live and commute in an extremely crowded city and park on the road, luxury cars may not be the best idea if you value your paint. Even in places like New York City, the streets aren't exactly lined with fancy new cars. The type of vehicle you use should suit the environment you plan to drive it in.
You'll lose less sleep if your preowned Honda Civic from the local dealer gets scratched by someone with no parallel parking skills than if your brand new BMW or Mercedes Benz gets scratched. Plus, if you were aware of the size class and actual length of these vehicles, you could rest easy knowing where it stands on the range of sizes. Knowing the length of your vehicle or potential vehicle may require breaking out the yardstick, but it's comforting to know how you match up to the standard. If your car's length hasn't been modified, then a VIN decoder can be used to find your car's exact size by looking up the VIN number.
Whether you drive a coupe, crossover, sports utility vehicle, or big ol' pickup, automotive size doesn't have to matter, but it can be important depending on your location. Having enough space to house powerful engines or roomy interior spaces can contribute to how enjoyable a vehicle is. There's no better feeling in the world than taking a parking spot that a larger vehicle had to pass up though.
This post was originally published on June 11, 2021.