What Is the Difference Between a Limo and a Limousine?

Few modes of transportation are more luxurious than a limo. And when most people think of a limousine, they think of a long, sleek vehicle—usually white or black—that has a driver and room for a large number of passengers.

Sure, the limo described above is the kind that’s used most often, but is there a difference between a “limo” and a “limousine”? Such is the main question we answer in this blog!

There’s no difference between a limo and a limousine. The word “limo” is merely a shortened version of the word “limousine”. Some businesses prefer the full word as it sounds more elegant, while others keep the shortened version to sound hip and current. 

How Is a Limousine Different From a Car?

The main thing that distinguishes limousines from regular cars is limousines are driven by professional drivers, otherwise known as chauffeurs (check out our Los Angeles chauffeur service for more details).

And unlike most taxis, limousines have two compartments; one for the driver and one for the passengers. There’s also no meter.

Many people think that limousines are strictly the long, sedan-like vehicles that have a spacious compartment for passengers and a separated cab for the driver, but the reality is a range of vehicles can be classified as limousines.

In order for a vehicle to be classified as a limousine, it needs to be:

  1. Driven by a professional chauffeur.
  2. Separated into two compartments, one for the passengers and one for the driver.

Passenger vehicles that are driven by freelancers for ride-sharing companies are not limousines, as there’s no separation between drivers and passengers. Plus, limousines are more luxurious overall, largely because they’re driven by trained professionals which also makes them ideal for group transportation.

What Kinds of Limousines Are There?

Limousines come in many shapes and sizes. The classic, long sedan is the style most people think of when they hear the word limo. This is also known as a stretch limo.

A smaller, luxury sedan that seats four, sometimes called a town car, is another kind of limo.

Then there are stretch SUV limousines, limo buses, and even convertible limos.

Many luxury automakers manufacture regular and SUV stretch limos, luxury buses and shuttles, and town cars, including Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Hummer, and Lincoln.

What Are Limousines Used For?

Airport Transportation

Many people use town cars for airport transportation. A chauffeur can pick you up at your home and drive you to the airport of your choosing, and they can pick you up and bring you back home when you return. This is a much more convenient way to travel to and from the airport.

Business Travel

If you’re a busy executive who’s constantly going from one meeting to the next, using a limousine service will save time and ensure you don’t miss important appointments. And since there’s separation between the passenger and the driver, you can talk business on the phone with total privacy.

Special Events

Limousines are used for all kinds of special events, though most people associate limos with weddings. Driving away in a sleek, white limo can certainly make that special day extra special.

Limos are also ideal for prom night transportation, and limo services are often used by couples who are looking to enjoy a night on the town.

Especially if you have a top-notch driver, cruising around in a limousine is an experience like no other.

Why You Should Choose Imperial Limos

At Imperial Limo WorldWide, we always treat our customers like royalty. We’ll pick you up on time, bring you to your destination, and make sure your experience is first-rate from booking to drop-off. Call us at (929)-331-2898 or visit our site to book now!