1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1966 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1973 Chevrolet Vega is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chevrolet Vega (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 120 kg more than 1966 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1973 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 1966 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Riley |
| Model | Vega | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1966 |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 25 L |
