1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 37 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster 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, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Vega | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
