How to Read a Vehicle Spec Sheet
Every vehicle page on this site follows the same layout: engine, transmission, fuel type, drive, dimensions, weight and safety ratings. Here's what each of those actually means and why it matters when comparing cars.
Engine and displacement
Displacement (shown in litres, e.g. "2.0L") is the total volume swept by all the engine's cylinders — broadly, a bigger number means more potential power and torque, but modern turbocharged small engines can match or beat larger naturally-aspirated ones. Cylinder count (4-cyl, 6-cyl, V8) affects smoothness and sound more than raw output on its own.
Transmission
Automatic, manual, or CVT (continuously variable transmission — no fixed gears, common on hybrids and small economy cars). More gears in an automatic generally means smoother, more efficient power delivery, since the engine can stay closer to its most efficient speed.
Drive type
FWD (front-wheel drive) sends power to the front wheels only — the most common and usually the most fuel-efficient layout. RWD (rear-wheel drive) sends power to the rear wheels, common on performance and luxury cars. AWD/4WD sends power to all four wheels, for extra traction in poor conditions at the cost of some fuel economy.
Dimensions and weight
Length, width and height determine how easily a car fits in a standard parking space or garage; kerb weight (the car's weight with fluids and a full tank, no passengers) affects both acceleration and fuel economy — heavier cars generally need more energy to move.
CO₂ emissions
Measured in grams per kilometre (g/km), this figure feeds directly into UK Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) bands — lower CO₂ generally means a lower or zero annual tax bill. It's also the figure most commonly used to compare a car's environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between kerb weight and gross weight?
Kerb weight is the car alone with fluids and a full tank, no passengers or cargo. Gross weight (GVWR) adds the maximum legal payload — passengers, luggage, cargo — on top.
Does a bigger engine always mean better performance?
Not necessarily. A smaller turbocharged engine can outperform a larger naturally-aspirated one in both power and efficiency — displacement alone doesn't tell the whole story.
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