1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2001 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2001 Peugeot 406 is newer by 27 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, 2001 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 339 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, 2001 Peugeot 406, 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, 2001 Peugeot 406 (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. 1974 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2001 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 2001 Peugeot 406 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 | 2001 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Peugeot |
| Model | Vega | 406 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
