1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 28 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 15 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Vega.
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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2500 mm |
