1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 345 kg more than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (241 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Chevrolet Vega | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Vega | Jetta |
Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |