How long is a box Chevy?
A box Chevy — the nickname for Chevrolet’s square-faced full-size sedans from the late 1980s to mid-1990s, notably the Caprice and Impala — is typically about 215 to 225 inches long, depending on year and trim. This article explains how length is defined, what factors influence it, and how to verify the exact measurement for a specific car.
Defining the term and its scope
In automotive slang, a “box Chevy” refers to Chevrolet’s boxy, squared-off-generation full-size sedans built on GM’s B-body platform. These cars are prized by enthusiasts for their classic shape and substantial presence. The term covers several model years and trims, with Caprice and Impala sedans forming the core of the box-era lineup.
Before listing the typical dimensions, here is a quick primer on what constitutes the box-era Chevrolet full-size sedans. These models shared a common platform and exterior silhouette that emphasized a squared-off, utilitarian look rather than curvy styling.
- Chevrolet Caprice and Impala sedans built on GM’s B-body platform during the late 1980s through the mid-1990s.
- Variants including standard sedans and, in some markets, long-wheelbase configurations; the overall footprint remained similar across trims.
- A term widely used by enthusiasts to describe the “boxy” styling of these generations.
Though the exact length varies by year and trim, the box Chevy family generally occupies a consistent size class within full-size American sedans of that era.
Estimated length by era and body style
To help readers grasp scale, here are broad, approximate lengths. Exact numbers depend on the specific year, model, and any trimming or bumper options.
- Typical box Chevys (Caprice/Impala sedans) measure roughly 215–225 inches in overall length (about 5.46–5.71 meters).
- Some long-wheelbase or special editions may approach the upper end of the range, but most stay within the 215–225 inch band.
- Wagons or certain market variants can differ slightly, though sedan lengths remain in the general vicinity.
Because production details differ by year and market, always check the exact figure on the vehicle’s placard or GM’s spec sheets for precision.
How length varies by year and model
It’s important to recognize that the exact length depends on the model year, trim level, and whether a particular version used a longer wheelbase or different bumper/trim configuration. The Caprice and Impala from the box-era share a core platform but can differ in length by a few inches between generations.
How to verify the exact length for a specific car
To determine the exact overall length of a specific box Chevy, use one or more of these sources: the owner’s manual, the vehicle’s door jamb placard (the sticker that lists wheelbase and overall length), the official GM spec sheets archived by dealers, or trusted databases such as NADA or the manufacturer’s brochures. You can also measure with a tape measure from bumper to bumper, accounting for mirrors or bumper extensions.
Other considerations: length, parking, and handling
Beyond raw inches, the box Chevy’s length influences parking, maneuverability, and garage fit. Even within a tight length band, wheelbase and overhangs affect how the car handles in urban spaces, the amount of stall space needed, and trunk and interior usability for daily use.
Summary
In summary, a box Chevy’s overall length generally falls in the 215–225 inch range, with minor variation by year and trim. For an exact figure on a given car, consult the model’s documentation or measure the vehicle directly. These boxy Chevys remain iconic for their bold, squared-off styling and substantial road presence, decades after they were new.
How long is the box on a Chevy Silverado?
The Chevy Silverado 1500 comes in three bed styles. Standard Beds have a length of 79.44 inches and a capacity of 71.7 cubic feet. Long Beds for Regular Cabs boast 98.18 inches of length and 89.1 cubic feet of cargo potential.
How long is a Chevy truck in feet?
The total length of a Chevy Silverado varies significantly by model and configuration, but generally ranges from approximately 17.8 feet (Regular Cab with Short Bed) to 22.2 feet (Crew Cab with Long Bed). For example, a 2023 Silverado with a Regular Cab and standard bed is about 17.6 feet, while a Crew Cab with a standard bed is around 20.1 feet.
Here's a breakdown of some common configurations in feet:
2023 Chevy Silverado 1500
- Regular Cab, Standard Bed: ~17.6 feet
- Regular Cab, Long Bed: ~19.1 feet
- Double Cab, Standard Bed: ~19.3 feet
- Crew Cab, Short Bed: ~19.3 feet
- Crew Cab, Standard Bed: ~20.1 feet
Other Chevy models
- Colorado (2023-2024): Approximately 17.7 to 18.7 feet
- Silverado 2500HD (2023-2024): Approximately 19.6 to 22.2 feet
Note: These are approximate lengths and can vary slightly depending on the specific trim and options. For the most precise measurement, check the specifications of the exact model and configuration you are interested in.
How long is a Chevy standard box?
A Chevy standard bed is approximately 6 feet, 6 inches long, which is about 79.44 inches. This bed size is available with different cab configurations, including the Double Cab and Crew Cab, and offers a cargo volume of about 71.7 cubic feet.
- Standard bed length: 79.44 inches (6 ft, 6 in)
- Available with: Double Cab and Crew Cab configurations
- Cargo volume: 71.7 cubic feet
What are the dimensions of a Chevy truck bed?
Chevy bed sizes vary by model and configuration, with the Silverado 1500 offering a short bed (69.9 in.), standard bed (79.4 in.), and long bed (98.2 in.). The Colorado typically has a short bed (61.7 in.) and a long bed (74 in.), though the long box was phased out for newer models. Silverado HD trucks (2500 and 3500) have a standard bed (82.3 in.) or long bed (98.2 in.).
Chevrolet Colorado
- Short Bed: 5′2"5 prime 2 "5′2" or 61.761.761.7 inches
- Long Bed: 6′2"6 prime 2 "6′2" or 747474 inches (availability may vary by model year)
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Short Bed: 5′8"5 prime 8 "5′8" or 69.969.969.9 inches (only available with the Crew Cab)
- Standard Bed: 6′6"6 prime 6 "6′6" or 79.479.479.4 inches (available with Double and Crew Cabs)
- Long Bed: 8′2"8 prime 2 "8′2" or 98.298.298.2 inches (only available with the Regular Cab)
Chevrolet Silverado HD (250025002500 and 350035003500)
- Standard Bed: 6′9"6 prime 9 "6′9" or 82.382.382.3 inches
- Long Bed: 8′8 prime8′ or 98.298.298.2 inches
