1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1996 Opel Vectra

To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 261 kg more than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 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 1971 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Chevrolet Vega 1996 Opel Vectra
Make Chevrolet Opel
Model Vega Vectra
Year Released 1971 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2287 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1005 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1430 mm