1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Vega (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (60 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 85 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1975 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vega | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 920 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 |
