1970 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2003 Chevrolet S-10
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet S-10 is newer by 33 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, 2003 Chevrolet S-10 (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet S-10 should accelerate faster than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet S-10 weights approximately 465 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 2003 Chevrolet S-10 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet S-10 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Chevrolet S-10 (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet S-10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. 1970 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2003 Chevrolet S-10 has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet S-10 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chevrolet Vega | 2003 Chevrolet S-10 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Vega | S-10 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3130 mm |
