1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 38 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | GTI |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2000 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 | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
