1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 33 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, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 315 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, 2004 Saturn L, 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, 2004 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2004 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2004 Saturn L 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 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Vega | L |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| 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 | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |
