This paper presents the study of prismatic columns of different cross sections subjected to low velocity impact, which are commonly used as energy absorber components in vehicles. The impacts of the columns were numerically analyzed using FEM. Four cross sections were considered, i.e. square, hexagonal, octagonal and circular. For each cross section, columns with several combinations of perimeters and thicknesses were analyzed. The results showed that, for columns with equal perimeter and thickness, those with circular cross sections have the highest mean crushing force and those with square cross sections have the lowest crushing forces. Furthermore, keeping all other parameters constant, columns with thicker wall have significantly higher crushing force while columns with longer perimeter have only slightly higher crushing force. This parametric information will be very useful for modern automotive industry in designing front longitudinal members within an acceptable safety level.