1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 497 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Vega | Passat |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |