1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1999 Ford Focus

To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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, 1999 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 235 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, 1999 Ford Focus, 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, 1971 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Focus. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Focus 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 1999 Ford Focus
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Vega Focus
Year Released 1971 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2287 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91.9 mm 81.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1005 kg 1240 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 42 L 55 L