1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1982 Ford Escort
To start off, 1982 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Vega 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 11 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 55 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. 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, 1982 Ford Escort, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 1982 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Vega | Escort |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2400 mm |
