What is a primary characteristic of a conventional frame vehicle?

A primary characteristic of a conventional frame vehicle is the existence of a separate substructure that serves as the foundation for mounting various components such as the suspension, drivetrain, and body. This design, often referred to as a body-on-frame construction, provides a strong support structure while allowing for easier repairs and modifications, as the body can be detached from the frame.

In contrast, vehicles with an integrated front end and body panels are typically associated with unibody construction, which combines the body and frame into a single unit. The misconception that lightweight design is a characteristic of conventional frame vehicles is also misleading, as unibody designs tend to be lighter due to their construction method. The statement that all modern cars have a conventional frame is incorrect; many contemporary vehicles utilize unibody construction for enhanced safety, rigidity, and weight efficiency. Thus, the separate substructure's significance firmly establishes it as the defining trait of conventional frame vehicles.