Chevrolet Vega (XP887). 1971–7 (prod. over 2,000,000). 2-door sedan, 3-door coupé, 3-door wagon. F/R, 122 in³ (I4 DOHC), 140 in³ (I4 OHC). GM’s response to imported subcompacts, and a popular answer to the likes of the Ford Pinto and AMC Gremlin domestically. Developed in a record two years under chief engineer Ed Cole. All-aluminium fours were innovative but development was rushed, and proved terribly unreliable. Bodies corroded, till better rustproofing arrived for 1975. Final cars for 1976–7 remedied most issues, but it was too late. Space was tight inside. Ride was harsh. Handling was the Vega’s saving grace. Cosworth Twin Cam model for 1975 and 1976 (prod. 3,508) worth special mention: DOHC cylinder head designed by Cosworth, though 122 in³ (1999 cm³) engine designed by Chevrolet. Fuel injection unleashed more power, netting 110 hp. Price was well above regular Vegas, at US$5,916 in 1975, more than twice that of a regular coupé.

Manufacturing locations: Lordstown, Ohio, USA; South Gate, California, USA; Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, Canada

Marque: Chevrolet | Successor: Chevrolet Monza (1975–80)