1969 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 36 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 186 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, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (164 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 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 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2005 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 | 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Vega | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 57 L |
