The short answer is yes.
There is a theory that implies that it depends on the type of metal the company uses for their vehicle. If primarily steel is used, it is harder to damage than if recycled material is used. This condition may vary depending on if they have tight control of impurities during the process. The fewer the impurities, the higher the quality of the metal would be. Due to the lack of research backing up this theory, it is -as far as we know- safe to say that recycled metal is just as strong as steel.
Something there is no doubt about is that dent resistance is related to the thickness of the metal. Most manufacturers use very thin body panels to cut costs. Most non-luxury cars body panels are as thin as possible. On the other hand, Luxury cars ( e.g. Porsche, Audi, Lexus) use thicker panels, making them more dent resistant.
It is also true that some luxury brands are starting to use thinner metal in their sports car lines to reduce weight increasing the miles per gallon (MPG). It is believed it will probably not be long till plastic body panels make a comeback. It’s important to have in mind that each manufacturer will spec the steel they feel best suits the car. A combination of ductility and thickness. So steel used by Nissan may be different than the one used by Toyota. Even model to model within a brand may vary.
Now, looking at it from a street perspective, according to a poll of what people saw in the streets in their daily lives, it seems like some cars attract more digs and dents that others. For example, the Kia Souls was reported to have dings and dents all over its surface. The Honda Fit is quite the opposite. The damage of the car dent/ding-wise was pretty much non-existent, it shared this position with the Mini Cooper, we believe it may have something to do with the size. The Chrysler Town and Country minivans often had the rear bumper dented, cracked or it had a broken tail light. Honda Accords, dings on the doors. Acuras, dings on the doors as well. Fords seem to be fairly ding proof, at least bigger models. Although others shared how they have seen a Ford Focus fold up like an accordion in a parking lot crash.
In conclusion, the thickness of the metal has a lot to do with the damage it can take, the thicker it is, the less likely it is to get damaged. It depends a lot on what brand you’re purchasing from, as well as what model. Accidents happen, so if you find your vehicle with a ding or a dent, don’t hesitate giving us a call at (305) 908-5545 or make an appointment with us here.