How to Find a Car that Fits your Size: Automotive Brands and Models for Heavy or Short Drivers

Apr 2, 2005 - © Peggy Hoehne

Depending on body proportions, big or short people may have to look harder to find a car that fits them. The distance the seat can be moved back from the steering wheel may be an issue, and, of course, every driver must be able to reach the pedals and see over the wheel.

Modifying Cars for Bigger Drivers

It is essential for everyone to be at least 10-12 inches away from the airbag. The airbag is capable of causing serious damage if it deploys at close range, and many vehicles are coming out with on/off switches for the airbags. You can obtain a switch to install from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or from a dealership, repair shop, or state motor vehicle office.

Seatbelts are often an issue for big people. If the standard seatbelts do not fit, you can usually get a seatbelt extender. Some companies are more willing to help with seatbelt modifications than others. Some with a good rating are Toyota, Dodge, Chevrolet (GM), Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Saturn, Volkswagen, and Volvo. A few vehicles that are mentioned as being good for big drivers are the 2005 Chrysler 300, the PT Cruiser, and the Scion Xb.

If you can't get a seatbelt extender from the company there are other options. Try installing oversized van seatbelts available from your auto store. An auto upholsterer or customizer can replace the seatbelts.

Good Cars for Short Drivers

Short people share some of the same difficulties big people do. They need to find a vehicle in which they can remain 10-12 inches from the airbags and still reach the pedals. If they cannot, they may need pedal extenders. Other problems for short people can be seeing over the dash and steering wheel, being able to reach the back lift to shut it, and being able to step up into the vehicle.

Some cars short people have liked:

Sedan
Acura MDX
Audi A6
BMW 3 Series
Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx
Honda Accord
Lexus IS300, LS430, RX330
Mazda 3
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Toyota Avalon, Camry
Volkswagen Golf, GTI, Passat, and Jetta

Compact
Mini Cooper

Minivan
Toyota Sienna

Other resources:

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