1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI is newer by 37 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GLI weights approximately 231 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 2008 Volkswagen GLI is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen GLI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen GLI has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 | 2008 Volkswagen GLI | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | GLI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
