The history of public domain finite element models of the side impact anthropometric test dummy are summarized and recent improvements are briefly discussed. The perfomance of the two most recent public domain finite element models are discussed with respect to the predictions of acceleration time histories as compared to standard bench calibration tests as well as an in-vehicle full-scale vehicle crash test. The thoracic trauma indices and the maximum pelvis accelerations are calculated based on the finite element models and are compared to the results obtained in physical calibration tests. The responses and fidelity of the finite element models are discussed and recommendations for further improvements are provided.