1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1985 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1985 Ford Taurus is newer by 11 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Taurus weights approximately 440 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 1985 Ford Taurus, 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, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1985 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Vega | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 45 L |
