1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 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 85 kg more than 1980 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, 1980 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 1974 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Vega | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
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 | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 45 L |