1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 15 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) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 1974 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Fiesta 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 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Vega | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 74 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2450 mm |
