1969 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Chevrolet Vega (81 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 200 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Vega is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1969 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 1969 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Chevrolet Vega | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 45 L |
