1969 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 182 kg more than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (164 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. 1969 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Vega | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 57 L |
