Believe it or not, the weight of your vehicle does matter. Extra weight could mean more of a gas guzzler, or less weight could make you more vulnerable in an accident.
When buying a car, knowing how much the vehicle weighs can help in the process. A lighter car might be more affordable but lack the power and strength of those with more junk in the trunk. For example, these are the lightest and heaviest vehicles of 2021.
If you read through all of them, you’ll start to notice a pattern. You’ll see just how vital weight can factor in when buying a vehicle.
5TH LIGHTEST: Nissan Versa (2650 lbs.)
This past year, the Nissan Versa was considered one of the best subcompact cars in its class. Both critics and consumers praised the lovely interior, safety features and all-around smooth ride. On top of that, the roomy trunk space and superior cabin design were also worth mentioning.
Although, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its shortcomings. Critics were quick to point out the problematic controls and dull engine. This is nothing new for the model, as the 2009 and 2014 models received similar criticisms.
While this model offered no significant fundamental changes compared to last year, but the low-price tag and light weight could be enough to be a contender as your new car.
5TH HEAVIEST: Ford F-250 Super Duty
Boasting massive torque and a spacious crew cab, the 2021 Ford f250 Super Duty is one of the most influential models to come out in recent years. Living up to its name, the Power Stroke diesel engine with a bragworthy 1050 pound-feet of torque has the power to pull approximately 37,000 lbs.
Unfortunately, the interior has been described as “sharp and practical” and “cheap and poor quality.” The controls were straightforward with sharply designed designs, but some bits took away from the overall look.
Also, highway driving can be clumsy, plagued by rushing wind and road noises that can distract the driver. Especially since the highway is when you need all your focus. But, if trucks are your thing, you won’t be disappointed with this model.
4TH LIGHTEST: Hyundai Accent SE (2502 lbs.)
Both reliable and affordable, the Hyundai Accent was the car to beat for a while. People couldn’t get enough of the dignified looks, superior handling and practical yet straightforward interior design.
Starting at only $16,000, this was one of the least expensive cars you could buy this year. However, you have to assume that the manufacturers cut corners somewhere with such a low price. Here, the engine suffers from limited power and little cargo room. So, if you’re hoping for a vacation with the family, this is not the vehicle for it.
But, the excellent reliability score and impressive fuel economy help this become a car for either work or school.
4TH HEAVIEST: Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD (7352 lbs.)
Despite improving on some specs from the previous year, including increased towing capacity and tech upgrades, the Chevrolet Silverado isn’t the best truck on the market. However, it is probably one of the biggest that General Motors sells, so take that for what it’s worth.
Both the interior and ride quality fall short with this model. Driving can feel somewhat stiff, and with flat, firm cushions, it’s not very comfortable either. This doesn’t really make driving the Silverado very entertaining.
But if you just need a truck with a good engine and towing capabilities, this will more than likely fill your needs.
3RD LIGHTEST: Mazda MX 5 Miata Club (2341 lbs.)
A car for those who just want to look good. The Mazda MX-5 Miata wasn’t meant for road trips or vacations due to its limited space for both luggage and people.
This is simply a delightful vehicle to drive with the top down on a sunny day. The four-cylinder engine produces enough power to make it feel peppy, and its chassis is perfectly balanced for those incredibly curvy roads. Along with the lighter load, you know that it’ll be a smoother ride.
Probably one of the cheapest convertible sports cars on the market, so this could be your only chance to inside one.
3RD HEAVIEST: GMC Sierra 3500HD (7352 lbs.)
The truck for those who need a workhorse, not a show pony. The GMC Sierra HD will get the job done but, if you’re hoping for a machine as fancy or tech-savvy as competitors, this one might fall a little short.
The Duramax engine is developed to handle 910 pounds-feet of torque, pulling over 35,000 lbs. Unfortunately, the lack of safety features compared to its rivals and not-so-impressive interior design hold the model back.
But, it is one of the cheaper trucks on the market right now, so the sacrifice of tech and style might be worth it for you.
2ND LIGHTEST: Chevrolet Spark LS (2246 lbs.)
You can save a lot of money with the Chevrolet Spark. With a price tag starting at $14,500 and the fuel efficiency, this is probably one of the cheapest cars on the entire market. Just keep in mind that the four-cylinder engine isn’t anything spectacular, and the seats aren’t the comfiest.
But, with that said, critics still praised the Spark’s interior materials, along with decent handling to make a “surprisingly good ride.” A good ride for students or the elderly because the engine’s passing power is nearly non-existent. So, driving on highways can be an “interesting” experience.
2ND HEAVIEST: Ram 3500 Limited Mega Cab SB (7536 lbs.)
Both comfortable and quiet when on the road, the Ram 3500 was an instant favourite among the trucking community. Last year, a lot was improved, including increased maximum towing, an enhanced high-output diesel engine, and a digital rearview mirror.
Unfortunately, that quietness doesn’t translate well on the outside. The diesel engine can be on the noisy side, which could be annoying for passerbyers with sensitive ears. But other than that, even the increased weight doesn’t seem to slow down this model.
Along with a very fair and affordable price, it’s no secret why this was a favourite for the year 2021.
LIGHTEST: Mitsubishi Mirage ES (2040 lbs.)
Not exactly the most popular vehicle of the year. The only thing consumers can agree is that the best part of the Mitsubishi Mirage is the price tag. With the pandemic creating financial strain on the population, it’s not exactly a mystery why.
Everything else, from the laughable speed, obnoxious noise and overall poor craftsmanship, people were none too kind to this car when it debuted. Sadly, it wasn’t unwarranted. JD Power gave the vehicle poor scores for reliability and quality, and consumer reports rated it as the lowest-rated vehicle in its class.
It may not be the best vehicle on the market, but it definitely is the lightest. So, take that for what it’s worth, which isn’t very much judging by the price tag.
HEAVIEST: Ford F-450 Super Duty (8587 lbs.)
Some have complimented the Ford F-450 Super Duty as the “pinnacle of Ford’s truck ambitions.” It’s easy to see why its incredible towing capabilities and Turbodiesel V8 engine generates colossal power and torque.
Really, the only downsides that critics can find with this model are the price and weight. The cost can start at close to $60,000 and go as high as $93,000. So, which will it be, your child’s college tuition or a new truck?
The heavier weight can protect drivers better than smaller, more compact vehicles, but the increased girth can make parking more tedious and take on less payload. Overloading a vehicle can damage the suspension and wheels, so owners need to be more mindful of that.
Pinnacle of Ford’s truck ambitions? What do you think?
