1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1974 Chevrolet Vega
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 182 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. 1974 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1974 Chevrolet Vega | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Cavalier | Vega |
Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 91.9 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 42 L |