Are Bigger Cars Safer

There are more small cars on the road today than ever before. This is true despite the fact the National Highway Safety Administration, back in 1997, reported that small cars aren’t as safe. What’s up with that? The simple answer is that most of the public has been willing, or forced because of financial concerns, to sacrifice some safety to improve their miles to gallons of gas ratio and to reduce emissions.

Americans were famous for their big cars. Can’t we have both? It turns out that soon we just might. But, we’ll need to change our mindset about one common belief that is no longer true. Most people assume that a larger, heavier car is safer. That’s the myth and it’s not really true today.

Car Manufacturing w/ New Materials

Things have changed significantly over the past decade. Now, there are light manufacturing materials that can accomplish fuel-efficiency and reduced emissions on larger vehicles. In fact, contrary to common belief, making a vehicle lightweight actually improves safety. A car that is lightweight is more agile than a heavy car, allowing drivers to avoid accidents and road service calls.

So, do not make the assumption that the weight and size of a vehicle go hand in hand since this isn’t necessarily true these days. Many high-end manufacturers are utilizing lightweight, strong materials, like carbon fiber, for roofs and hoods. These materials tend to be expensive, but offer many advantages.

The Small 'Smart ForTwo' Car Crash Test

Another example that demonstrates the safety of these new materials, is the diminutive “Smart ForTwo”, which has performed amazingly well in crash tests, is using plastic door panels. The doors won’t ding or scratch, and are reinforced internally with steel bars. This gives the best protection in the instance of a side impact, yet it is more lightweight than a conventional door. The Smart ForTwo actually received 4 stars, the highest rating, in side crash tests.

Another example that demonstrates the safety of these new materials, is the diminutive “Smart ForTwo”, which has performed amazingly well in crash tests, is using plastic door panels. The doors won’t ding or scratch, and are reinforced internally with steel bars. This gives the best protection in the instance of a side impact, yet it is more lightweight than a conventional door. The Smart ForTwo actually received 4 stars, the highest rating, in side crash tests.

Currently, small vehicle sales are at an all time high in the U.S. (The Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit are just two examples of top sellers.) However, keeping up with technology and understanding that heavy doesn’t necessarily mean safe, just might make a difference in the choices you make in the future. You might have to pay more for big vehicles that are lightweight; but my guess is that many buyers will consider it worthwhile because of comfort as well as safety issues.

For Warranty Protection Call Toll Free 1-888-418-8231

Return to: Automotive Articles

Auto Service Protection is a nationally recognized, full-service extended car warranty company. Total coverage for used cars, 0% interest and payment plans.

Read more on Auto Warranty FAQs here.

Click Here »  Extended Warranty Quote

Comparing Used Car Warranties?
Buy Direct & Avoid Commissions.

Extended car warranty programs direct to the consumer, NO Middlemen, Buy Direct! Now you can Save $100s of dollars below dealer prices on your next car warranty.
Then put the Savings back in your pocket.

Got a Question? Call Now Toll Free 1-888-418-8231