Are smaller cars more dangerous?

Driving can be an expensive way to get around. In addition to the vehicle’s upkeep, climbing fuel prices may have you thinking about more fuel-efficient cars.

As you look at the difference between small cars and their medium and larger competition, you may start to wonder if there is enough to protect you in the event of a crash.

Here’s what small cars bring to the safety table and whether you can have a vehicle that is both small and safe.

Old tanks

When comparing older cars and newer ones, you may have heard that old vehicles are “built like tanks.” This idea is primarily due to the materials used to build older cars versus newer ones.

While many older cars were made of a more significant proportion of steel, making them heavier, they are not necessarily safer. A smaller vehicle with reinforced plastics and advanced safety features tend to be safer than an older vehicle that is more likely to skid, or even roll over.

Big vs. small

Small car drivers tend to worry less about crashes with similarly sized vehicles, and more about accidents with larger cars and trucks. These are understandable concerns, considering that accident victims in larger vehicles usually suffer the fewest injuries.

When comparing crash ratings, it is essential to look within the same class of vehicle. Although many small cars on the market have high crash ratings, comparing them to a large SUV is not a fair comparison.