1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2013 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2013 Toyota Matrix is newer by 40 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Matrix (156 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 475 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, 2013 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2013 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 2013 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Vega | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4365 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 50 L |
