Standard vs Full Size Car: Which Should You Choose?

When renting a car, you may be torn between renting a standard or full size car. They may appear similar, but continue reading to understand the pros and cons of each and how to weigh your decision. 

Standard car cons

• Limited space: While standard cars offer adequate space for most daily needs, they may not provide as much interior room as larger vehicles. Rear legroom and cargo capacity can be more restricted, especially when compared to SUVs or minivans.

• Passenger comfort: Due to their smaller size, standard cars may not offer the same level of passenger comfort as larger vehicles. Rear-seat passengers, in particular, may experience more limited legroom and less spacious seating arrangements.

• Cargo capacity: While standard cars have trunk space, it may be smaller compared to larger vehicles. This can pose challenges when carrying bulky or large items, such as furniture or sporting equipment.

• Performance limitations: Standard cars are generally not designed for high-performance driving. They may have less powerful engines and less sporty handling compared to sports cars or performance-oriented vehicles.

• Towing capability: If you require the ability to tow heavy loads, a standard car may not be the best choice. They are typically not equipped with the necessary towing capacities and features found in larger vehicles.

• Visibility: Some standard cars may have limited visibility, especially in certain body styles such as coupes, due to smaller windows and thicker pillars. This can affect the driver's ability to see surrounding traffic and obstacles.

Full size car cons

• Higher costs: Full-size cars tend to come with higher price tags compared to smaller vehicles. They often have higher initial purchase prices, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs. Additionally, their larger size can result in increased fuel consumption, leading to higher operating expenses.

• Maneuverability challenges: Due to their larger dimensions, full-size cars may be less maneuverable and more challenging to park in tight spaces or congested areas. Their size can limit agility and make them less suited for urban driving.

• Limited fuel efficiency: Full-size cars generally have larger engines, which can result in lower fuel efficiency compared to smaller vehicles. This means they may consume more fuel, resulting in higher ongoing fuel costs and increased environmental impact.

• Parking and storage concerns: The larger size of full-size cars can pose challenges when it comes to parking in crowded areas or fitting into smaller garages. It may also be more difficult to navigate narrow streets or tight parking spaces.

• Cargo space trade-off: While full-size cars often provide spacious passenger areas, the larger cabin size can impact trunk space. Depending on the specific model, the trunk capacity may be smaller compared to larger vehicles like SUVs or minivans.

• Handling and performance trade-offs: While full-size cars can offer powerful performance, they may not deliver the same sporty handling as smaller, more nimble vehicles. The increased weight and size can affect agility and cornering abilities.