What Is the Difference Between a Coupe and a Sedan?

A coupe is defined as a closed roof, 2-door passenger car with a three-box body for the engine and the passenger compartment. Most importantly, a coupe is a vehicle with interior space that is under 33 cubic feet. Some other features include having a body built closer to the ground with smooth lines from the roof to the rear of the car, giving it a sportier look. As for seating, the passenger compartment can comfortably seat 2. But depending on the model, some include 2 additional seats squeezed in the back. Within recent years the coupe has expanded with some featuring 4-doors and called “four-door coupes” instead of the traditional 2-doors. These “four-door coupes” have multiple hybrid characteristics taken from other car segments which have blurred the line between coupes, sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks. Among the different segments of cars, coupes are most popular with drivers who are looking for a stylish, sporty drive. They are also sought by drivers who enjoy drifting with the help of paddle shifters and ESC (electric stability control).

A sedan is a standard 4-door passenger car with a trunk separate from the passengers with a three-box body for the engine, the area for passengers, and the trunk. They are defined further as a vehicle with interior space of 33 cubic feet and over. Unlike the coupe, the sedan has a wheelbase that is longer and 3 amply spaced seats in the back, which allows for a more roomy and comfortable ride for your passengers. Moreover, the enclosed trunk has an ample amount of space and is much larger than a coupe’s. With the ability to store camping equipment, sports equipment, and other items, it quickly gained popularity and has become the most iconic vehicle for most families. 

With the key difference of being either over or under 33 cubic feet to qualify as a sedan or a coupe, let’s take compare other prominent features such as their proportions, interior space for passengers, space for cargo, performance, and price.

Proportions

Even though the amount of interior space distinguishes if a vehicle is categorized as a coupe or a sedan, it is only one of the many differences in dimension between these two vehicles. Although sedans are longer overall and provide extra space for passengers and cargo, coupes focus on elongating their windows and doors to emphasize design. 

Interior Space for Passengers

While both sedans and coupes are built on a three-box-body, the biggest difference between the two would be that coupes normally seat 2 passengers. But depending on the model, some coupes can cram 2 more seats in the back. With this arrangement, the 2 rear seats sacrifice legroom for design, to ensure it stays within the required 33 cubic feet. Whereas a sedan can comfortably seat 5 with plenty of leg space and headroom.

Space for Cargo

As for cargo space, the sedan easily upstages the coupe with a spacious trunk aside from the interior space for passengers. So if you plan on going on a road trip or need to carry multiple objects, the sedan would be the better option.

Performance

The coupe makes up for the lack of trunk space with its potential for a fun, sporty drive without worrying about the weight that comes with cargo. With slick curves, a low roof, and a body that hangs close to the ground, it is ideal for drivers who don’t mind giving up comfort for speed, handling, and the excitement that comes with it.

Price

When comparing the price for a sedan and a coupe, it is similar to that of comparing oranges to apples. With sedans, the price range varies as some models can be as low as $10,000 for a new car, but as high as $75,000 if you are looking for a luxury sedan. However, as an overall statement, coupes are generally priced higher. But like any other car, it depends on the add-ons that come along with each vehicle and the model.