The 10 cars that have grown the most in size in recent years

As we anticipated and explained in this previous in-depth analysis, manufacturers have increased the size of cars over the years to follow both serious and concrete aspects, and to support pure market choices mostly related to design and to the desire of the buyers.

There are models that have however undergone an exponential growth both in terms of length and width; what are the models that, in our opinion, have become much larger than the version from which they derive? We have examined the most famous manufacturers in search of the most striking cases, if you think we have forgotten something please let us know in the comments; for convenience we have relied on the Carsized.com site which offers a rich, but still not very complete database of solutions.

Audi A4

Twenty years of difference in the most famous sedan of the German group is enough? In our opinion yes, between the B5 model and the B9 variant, four generations later, there are 24 centimeters in length, 10 centimeters in width and 20 centimeters more step on the most recent declination. | ); }

BMW 3 Series

This scenario is rather familiar and follows the Audi trend somewhat; the differences are quite similar, perhaps also linked to the same segment of belonging.| ); }

Fiat Panda

It is impossible not to mention the legendary Panda which, years later, is gaining size in any direction. We have put under the magnifying glass two 4 × 4 declinations and the differences are in everyone's light:

Ford Fiesta

Without necessarily bothering the model of the 1976, we decided to compare the JH1 version with the current JHH; to be a compact solution, the increase is still significant even in this situation. Over ten centimeters in length and five in width; never mind the step that has remained unchanged.


And for the sporty Mustang? Despite the more than 50 years that separate these two cars, here we can witness a much more “measured” growth. The difference is limited and certainly more understandable considering the radical change that the historical model has undergone in the course of its life.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Here the possibilities are truly manifold; the sporty two-seater SL is a prime example of this and has grown in every direction over the course of more than 40 years. Over 10 centimeters in stride, 24 in length and 10 in width.



Going back more to the present day, the C-Class, in 20 years, has also registered a growth that can be defined as important:

Porsche 911

Still remaining in the German house, another relevant example in the sector is given by the Porsche 911; surely you have seen some images in recent years, but here the growth of the legendary Carrera is consistent. Without going too far back in time, between a 993 from 1993 and a 992 from 2022 there is almost 30 centimeters of difference (in length) in favor of the newer model.

Renault Clio

And the historic Clio? In the last 20 years the Clio has grown and we believe the most decisive step has come with the latest versions that have marked an almost radical change in the language of style. Here, too, the dimensions have increased from 10 to 25 centimeters in all directions.

Seat Ibiza

Do you remember the Ibiza of the 2000s? If not, we will refresh your memory with this direct comparison with the current model.

Volkswagen Polo and Golf

With Seat we have already reached 10 models, but the examples at Volkswagen are so relevant that we find it essential to mention them. The first that we examine is the small Polo which has risen by 33 centimeters in length, while for the Golf the growth has stopped, in 20 years, at “just” 21 centimeters.