The Advantages of Smaller Vehicles

The Advantages of Smaller Vehicles

It takes more effort to move heavier objects; this is a fundamental fact that every person becomes aware of early on in life. This is the same reason that bodybuilders lift massive weights to build huge muscles and why large tractor trailers are as big and overstated as they are. The more you need to move the more power you need to do it.

However, this need is overshadowed by the capability of today’s automobiles. Cars are big and more powerful; trucks can haul and move more and SUVs can carry more people comfortably. Each different vehicle has been designed to fill a different need, and chances are that you are driving a vehicle that is over filling yours.

Only Drive What You Need

If you are single why do you need to buy a SUV? Chances are that you have no use for the utility, off-road abilities and storage and when do you ever plan on hauling eight people around? The gas guzzler might look great but the reality is that it is simply more than you need.

The same can be said for sports cars, trucks, and mini-vans; unless you need to own them, why spend the extra money on gas every single day?

A smaller vehicle weighs less, and the end result of this weight difference is that a smaller vehicle will use less gas than a larger one. A Honda Civic, for example, achieves stellar fuel economy ratings and impressive performance in both its coupe and sedan model. In fact, the Civic gets nearly 35% better mileage than an Impala V8 or Crown Victoria. It does the same job, has similar performance, and attains higher fuel economy.

Smaller vehicles, such as the Civic, are able to act like larger ones thanks to innovations in engines and drive trains, space management, and materials. The Civic employs a legendary high revving four cylinder engine that is capable of achieving up to 197 horsepower (which is similar to what most V6 engines create), yet it is tame enough to drive daily with excellent mileage. It also employs lightweight materials, such as high quality plastics and aluminum and the cabin is specifically designed to fit the largest amount of people and items into the least amount of space.

Basic Math

If your engine has to work harder to move a heavier vehicle the end result is that it has to burn more gas. More gas burned equals poorer fuel economy.

Perhaps you need to really assess what your needs are and whether or not you need a large car, truck, van or SUV. Unless you have a family of six, a construction business or live in the woods, do you really need that SUV, van or truck?