Cosworth Vega

STORY

Chevrolet launched the Vega as a 1971 model, and Motor Trend named it its 1971 Car of the Year. The 140 cubic inch (2.3 liter) four-cylinder had an aluminum block without steel cylinder liners, topped by a cast-iron head. That pairing became the weak point: the head and block expanded at different rates, and overheating and engine failures damaged the car's reputation. The peak year was 1974 with 460,374 built, and more than two million Vegas were made before production ended after the 1977 model year. In 1975 the Cosworth Vega arrived.