1970 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 293 kg more than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chevrolet Vega | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
