1972 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 150 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. 1972 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1991 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1991 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Vega | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
