Coupes vs. Sedans: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Car

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If you are confused about the difference between sedan and coupe, you are not the only one. One of the biggest questions in the car world today is: what exactly is a sedan, and what is a coupe? These two car styles have been around for a long time but are not as common as they used to be.

Generally, a two-door car is called a coupe, and a four-door one is called a sedan. But there is more to it than just that. While both are simply known as “cars” by most people, each has its own features, advantages and disadvantages. Car makers are mixing things up that makes it harder to tell them apart.

In this blog, we will discuss the difference between coupe and sedan by comparing important features like their size, performance, price, etc. So, let’s dive in!

What is a coupe?

A coupe is generally known as a two-door car with a fixed roof and a design that separates the engine and passenger areas into three sections. But technically, a coupe is defined as a car with a fixed roof and rear seating area measuring less than 33 cubic feet, irrespective of the number of doors it has.

Coupes are often designed to sit lower to the ground, with smooth lines from the roof to the back, giving them a sporty appearance. Many sports cars, like the Ford Mustang, are considered coupes because they have a sportier appearance compared to sedans. Recently, some coupes have evolved into four-door versions, often called “four-door coupes.”

These cars mix features from different types of vehicles, such as sedans and SUVs. This makes it harder to distinguish between them. When it comes to seating, coupes usually have two seats, but some models offer a 2+2 setup. It means they can fit four passengers.

Overall, coupes are popular with drivers who want a stylish and sporty ride. They are especially favored by those who enjoy driving techniques like drifting, with the help of features like paddle shifters and electric stability control (ESC).

What is a sedan?

A sedan is a car with four doors and a fixed roof. It has a separate trunk and is divided into three sections: the engine, the passenger and the trunk. Sedans have at least 33 cubic feet of interior space that offers more room than a coupe. They are among the most common types of cars on the road, with popular models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

Sedans also have a longer wheelbase, which means more space in the back for passengers. This makes the ride more comfortable. While they were once very popular, the rise of trucks, crossovers and SUVs has made them less common.

The trunk in sedans is much larger than a coupe’s, which provides plenty of room for items like sports equipment, camping gear, and more. This practicality and space make sedans a common choice for many families.

From small cars like the Nissan Versa to large luxury cars like the Rolls-Royce Phantom, these cars can vary in size. Most sedans can fit five passengers, though some luxury models have only two rear seats.

Why are some sedans called coupes?

BMW and Mercedes have made things confusing by calling some of their four-door sedans “coupe” models. For example, the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is a large sedan, but it has a sleek and sporty roofline that makes it look like a coupe. The standard version of the car is just called the Mercedes-AMG GT.

BMW does something similar with its 2 Series, 4 Series and 8 Series by offering a “Gran Coupe” model. These are sporty versions of the regular sedans in their lineup, which also include traditional coupes and convertibles.

Coupe vs sedan: what’s the difference?

When you are shopping for cars, especially Mercedes-Benz, you might come across vehicles labeled as “coupes” or “sedans.” But what is the difference? They often look very similar, so it can be confusing to distinguish between them. Let us take a look at how they compare and what sets them apart.

Proportions

While the amount of interior space is what primarily determines if a car is a coupe or a sedan, it is not the only difference in size. Sedans are usually longer and offer more space for passengers and cargo. In contrast, coupes are designed to have longer windows and doors. This gives them a sleeker and more stylish look.

Cargo space

When it comes to cargo space, the sedan has the advantage of a large trunk, in addition to the space for passengers. So, if you are planning a road trip or need to carry a lot of items, a sedan would be a better choice.

Price

Comparing the price of a sedan to a coupe is like comparing apples to oranges. Sedans can range in price from as low as $10,000 for a basic model to $75,000 for a luxury version. In general, coupes tend to be more expensive. However, the price of both types of cars depends on the model and any additional features or options included.

Performance

The coupe may not have as much trunk space, but it makes up for that with a fun and sporty driving experience. Its sleek, low roof and close-to-the-ground design are perfect for drivers who prioritize speed, handling and excitement over comfort.

Also Read: AWD vs. 4WD: Choosing the Right Drive System for Your Needs

Conclusion:

Choosing between a sedan and a coupe is usually straightforward. If you often need to carry rear passengers, a sedan is the better choice. That is because some coupes do not have back seats, and the ones that do are quite small. On the other hand, if you do not often need rear seats or have another car for that purpose, a coupe might be a good option.

Go for a coupe if you want a sporty car that stands out among all the SUVs, sedans and trucks, or if you enjoy the performance and driving experience that coupes offer. But if comfort, space and practicality are more important to you, and you do not mind blending in, then a sedan could be the right choice.