Thinking about adding another vehicle to your one-vehicle household? If so, you may be asking yourself, “Will I be able to fit a second car into my two-car garage?” If you own a home without a garage, then the question, “Can I comfortably park two cars in my driveway?” has likely crossed your mind.
Knowing average car dimensions can put your mind at ease when buying a new vehicle. With these measurements in mind, you can prepare accordingly for your new car—i.e., clear out space in your existing garage, work on a garage expansion project, build a garage from scratch, or rent an off-site storage space for your brand-new car.
How Long Is a Car?: Average Car Length
The average car length is about 14.7 feet. Car length plays a significant role in your daily driving experience, especially when navigating tight spaces and choosing a storage facility. Different body types can greatly impact the length of a car, ranging from compact to full-size vehicles, SUVs, and more.
Average Car Width
Car width also differs between various types of vehicles. Compact vehicles tend to have a narrower design, while full-size vehicles, SUVs, and trucks are generally wider. The average car width is approximately 5.8 feet, although specific widths will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Car Types and Their Sizes
Compact Cars
A compact car or mini car is a vehicle that is less than 14 feet long, providing increased maneuverability in urban settings. The average length of a compact car is approximately 10-14 feet. Typical examples include:
- Nissan Versa
- Honda Civic
- Hyundai Elantra
Generally, minicars have a width of approximately 5.8 feet to 6 feet and a height of 4.5 to 5 feet. These smaller vehicles are designed to be more fuel-efficient and easier to navigate in tight parking lots, making them ideal if you prioritize maneuverability and efficiency.
Midsize Cars
A midsize car has an average length of approximately 14-16 feet. Midsize cars are popular because they provide a balance between the compactness of smaller vehicles and the comfort of larger ones. They also offer a balance between space and fuel efficiency.
A typical medium sedan is about 14 feet long. Examples of midsize cars include:
- Toyota Camry
- Nissan Altima
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Sonata
The average width of a midsize car is approximately 6 feet, with a height of around 5.6 feet. These dimensions allow you to sit comfortably while maintaining a manageable size for navigating urban environments.
Full-Size Cars
Full-size cars are typically 16 feet to 18 feet long and are the best if you prioritize passenger room and a smooth, comfortable ride. The average width of a full-size car is in excess of 6 feet, while the height is about 4.7 feet depending on the manufacturer. With their spacious interiors, full-size cars are ideal if you want optimal cargo space.
Examples include:
- 2021 Dodge Charger
- Nissan Maxima
- Chrysler 300
Sports Cars
Sports cars have an average length measuring between 13 feet and 16.4 feet. These cars prioritize speed and aesthetics over practicality.
Known for their performance and style, sports cars have an average width ranging from 5.7 feet to 6.5 feet and a height of between 3.9 feet and 4.2 feet. The wider design of sports vehicles often contributes to their aggressive appearance and improved handling capabilities.
Examples include:
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Ford Mustang
- Dodge Viper
- Porsche 911
SUVs and Crossovers
Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and crossovers span from compact models measuring 15 feet long to large models measuring 16.5-17 feet long. Compact SUVs, such as Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, offer a smaller footprint than their larger counterparts while providing ample cargo space and versatility.
Midsize SUVs typically measure 15 to 16 feet in length. Examples include:
- Ford Explorer
- Honda Pilot
Full-size SUVs like Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition are over 16 feet long. SUVs and crossovers have widths that range from 6 feet for compact models to 6.5 to 7 feet for larger models. The height range for compact and big SUVs is between 4.9 feet and 5.5 feet.
The SUV dimensions offer more space and versatility than traditional sedans, making them popular choices when you need additional cargo space.
Pickup Trucks
The average length of a pickup truck can vary from 16 feet to over 20 feet, depending on the cab and bed configurations. This range is longer than most vehicles, including sedans and compact vehicles.
The average width of a pickup truck can vary from 6.3 to 6.8 feet, while the height is between 5.5 to 6.2 feet. Pickup trucks are known for their versatility and utility, with an open-bed rear cargo area and a cab in the front. Examples include:
- Ford Ranger
- Ram 1500
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Minivans
Minivans have an average length of 16-18 feet, providing additional space for passengers and cargo compared to most cars. These vehicles are designed with families in mind, offering a higher roofline and more interior space than a sedan. The average width of a minivan is 6 feet 10 inches, with a height of 5.8 to 6 feet.
Examples of minivans include:
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Odyssey
- Kia Carnival
Luxury Cars
Luxury cars can span a wide range of dimensions, with certain models reaching a length of more than 18 feet. The average length of a luxury car is typically around 14.7 feet (or 4.5 meters), although the length may vary according to the manufacturer and model.
The average width of a luxury car is approximately 6 feet, with an average height of 4.9 feet. Luxury cars can also vary greatly, with some models being wider than usual.
These cars prioritize comfort, performance, and features over practicality. Examples include:
- Mercedes Benz S
- Mercedes Benz GLS
- Audi A8
- Jaguar XJ
Station Wagons
Station wagons have average dimensions of 15 to 16 feet long, width of 5.8 to 6.2 feet, and height of 4.5 to 5.4 feet. Also, they offer versatile cargo space with fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Examples of station wagons include:
- 2020 Buick Regal TourX
- Audi A4 Quattro
- Volvo V-60
How to Determine Your Car’s Dimensions
You can determine your car size through the following methods: using a VIN decoder, contacting a dealership, or measuring manually. Each method has advantages and can provide accurate information about your car’s length and width.
VIN Decoder
This tool can provide car dimensions and specifications based on your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Input your car’s VIN into the decoder to get details such as car dimensions, transmission, engine, color, standard features, and safety equipment.
If you’re into car-sharing, the VIN method is the easiest approach to determining the length of the car you’re hiring.
You can find the VIN in various places on the vehicle, especially the driver’s door. Double-check that the VIN is complete (17 characters) and accurate before using the decoder.
Dealership Inquiry
Contact your local dealer with your license number or VIN to obtain information about your car’s length and other specifications, including engine and mechanical equipment. Dealers can also provide information about car dimensions through new car specification sheets or the manual for a pre-owned car. Additionally, a car valuation website might offer such details.
Manual Measurement
You can know your car size using a tape measure or yardstick. To measure your car manually, run the tape measure or yardstick from the front to the rear to determine the car’s length.
When measuring the width of your car, consider the distance the side mirrors extend outwards. To measure the width, utilize a tape measure and stand at the driver’s side door, running the tape under the vehicle and positioning it at the opposite end.
In Summary
Aside from personal preference, the width and length of a car should, ultimately, inform where you park your new ride. It’s important to measure your car’s dimensions accurately and consider any aftermarket components that may alter its size.
If your measurements show that a second vehicle won’t fit into your existing garage or driveway, consider a peer-to-peer storage marketplace like Neighbor for your car storage needs. For more insight into alternative parking options and the most popular storage unit sizes for cars, check out this resource.
People Also Ask
What Are the Sizes of Cars?
Car sizes vary depending on the type and manufacturer. Generally, the dimensions of compact cars are 10-14 feet by 5.8-6 feet by 4.5-5 feet.
On the other hand, midsize cars are around 14-16 feet by 6 feet by 5.6 feet. Full-Size cars measure around 16-18 feet by 6 feet by 4.7 feet.
What Are Standard Car Widths?
A standard car’s width is approximately 5.8 feet or 1.7 meters or 69.6 inches. Variations exist with different car manufacturers.
What Are Considered Full-size Cars?
Full-size cars are around 16-18 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 4.7 feet high. Also, they have a cargo and passenger volume of between 120 and 160 cubic feet, depending on the car type.
What Size Is a Midsize Car?
A midsize car is about 14-16 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 5.6 feet high. Variations exist with different car manufacturers.
