Chevrolet Vega
The Chevrolet Vega is a subcompact automobile that was manufactured and marketed by GM's Chevrolet division from 1970 to 1977. Available in two-door hatchback, notchback, wagon, and sedan delivery body styles, all models were powered by an inline four-cylinder engine designed specifically for the Vega, with a lightweight, aluminum alloy cylinder block. The Vega first went on sale in Chevrolet dealerships on September 10, 1970. Variants included the Cosworth Vega, a short-lived limited-production performance model, introduced in the spring of 1975.
| Chevrolet Vega | |
|---|---|
1971 Chevrolet Vega | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Chevrolet (General Motors) |
| Also called | Vega 2300 |
| Production | 1970–1977 |
| Model years | 1971–1977 |
| Assembly | United States: Lordstown, Ohio (Lordstown Assembly); South Gate, California (South Gate Assembly) Canada: Quebec (Sainte-Thérèse Assembly) |
| Designer | GM & Chevrolet design staffs chief stylist, Bill Mitchell |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Subcompact |
| Body style |
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| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | H platform |
| Related | Pontiac Astre Chevrolet Monza Pontiac Sunbird Buick Skyhawk Oldsmobile Starfire |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission |
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| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 97.0 in (2,464 mm) |
| Length | 169.7 in (4,310 mm) |
| Width | 65.4 in (1,661 mm) |
| Height | 51 in (1,295 mm) |
| Curb weight | 2,181–2,270 lb (989–1,030 kg) (1971) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Chevrolet Corvair |
| Successor | Chevrolet Monza |
The Vega received the 1971 Motor Trend Car of the Year. Subsequently, the car became widely known for a range of problems related to its engineering, reliability, safety, propensity to rust, and engine durability. Despite a series of recalls and design upgrades, the Vega's problems tarnished both its own as well as General Motors' reputation. Production ended with the 1977 model year.
The car was named for Vega, the brightest star in the constellation Lyra.