Why Different Car Styles Matter

Your vehicle's make and model is dependent on many factors. The model is known as the name of the car itself and sometimes the lineup. For example, Chevrolet is car make and Malibu is a car model. The body style, make, model, and trim style all have an impact on the vehicle's value and insurance rates.

Differences Between Vehicles of the Same Model

Vehicles that have the same model can vary when it comes to the style and trim. Knowing the model is not enough to identify the vehicle when it involves several factors such as:

Buying or selling or that vehicle.

Looking for auto insurance.

Registering the vehicle.

Body Styles

Manufacturers could produce a certain model with various body style options. For example, you can purchase the 2019 Honda Civic in a coupe, hatchback, or sedan. Other common body types include the convertible, SUV, and wagon. The body style is determined by the vehicle's shape, the number of doors, and its internal features – such as the drivetrain, engine, and transmission.

Body style is the most important feature to consider when shopping for a vehicle since it has an impact on what you're using your vehicle for. For example, you wouldn't purchase a sports car if you're using it for business.

Trim Styles

Manufacturers also offer a wide variety of trim style options. These styles depend on the equipment and styling of the vehicle. For example, the Dodge Challenger 2019 offers six trim style options: Blacktop Stripe, Hellcat Bridge, R/T Classic Side Stripes, Scat Pack Bumblebee Stripe, Shaker Graphics, and SRT Twin Racing Stripe.

Additional style options include the R/T and GT, R/T Scat Pack, Shaker Models, and SRT Dual Snorkel Hood. Some of the most common trim styles include luxury, standard, and sport. The luxury trim style has a smoother suspension and upgraded leather interior.

The standard comes with no upgrades while the sport has an upgraded engine and handling. Some vehicle manufacturers have their own names for trim styles that makes it difficult to know the difference between the model name and the trim style.

Model Year

The model year is otherwise known as the year that the vehicle was released. Keep in mind that it's not the year that it was manufactured. It's possible to purchase a vehicle for a specific year months before the calendar year. For example, consumers were able to purchase the 2018 Honda Civic in the latter part of summer 2017.

Differences Between Vehicles of the Same Manufacturer

Manufacturers have clear distinctions that make them stand out among each other. Toyota Motor Corp. has several other car brands under the umbrella, such as Lexus, Scion, and Toyota. When you mention the make of your vehicle, you should also mention the car's brand name. Even if your car is a Scion, it's manufactured by Toyota Motor Corp. So it's important to state that it's a Toyota.

The reason why car manufacturers have other brands is because they either bought out or merged with other manufacturers. General Motors Corp. has purchased Buick, Cadillac, and Chevrolet over the years. They were all their own manufacturers at one point. They may also segment each brand to target a different market. For example, Toyota Motor Corp. launched Lexus to focus on the luxury vehicle market.

How to Find Your Vehicle's Make and Model

Your vehicle's make, model, and trim style is indicated by the badges, decals, and emblems on your vehicle. This a dead giveaway to locating your vehicle's make and model. If you still can't determine your vehicle's make or model, then you can find it on your car's registration certificate or in the owner's manual. Sometimes the cover of the owner's manual features your vehicle's make and model on the front.

Each vehicle comes with a vehicle identification number (VIN) that you can use to get more information about your vehicle. Use this number to find out the equipment specifications, model year, and the location where it was manufactured. The VIN is typically located inside of the driver's front door or dashboard.

These are 17 numbers in length. Then you can use an online VIN tracking tool to find the information you need about your vehicle.

When Does Your Car's Make and Model Matter?

The vehicle model has an impact on its value. This can help you plan accordingly if you're buying a new car or selling your current one. Vehicles that have the same body style and same make will have various values. It's important to get specific information about your vehicle, so you get the right information.

The body style and trim style can also affect the value of a car. The value of a vehicle with the same make and model varies on the body style and trim style. The make and model also determines your auto insurance rates. Collison and comprehensive coverage is typically based on your vehicle's value.

Auto insurers want to know how many drivers with the same body style and model have filed insurance claims. The more claims that have been filed, the more risky the vehicle is considered. Sports Cars are expected to have a higher number of liability claims compared to luxury vehicles.

Your auto insurance will also determine how safe your vehicle is for you and your passengers. An increase in safety features can help reduce insurance premiums.