1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 39 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion tC weights approximately 383 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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, 2012 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Scion |
| Model | Vega | tC |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
