1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Vega is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 95 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1974 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Vega | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |