1972 Chevrolet Vega GT review from North America

It would be easier to state what had not gone wrong on the car. That would be the radiator cap. Everything else in the engine compartment had to be replaced at least once. After a while I had to do all the work myself, just to reduce the cost, and install non OEM parts to get better longevity.

Engine block replaced at 10,000 miles due to scored cylinders.

Head replaced several times due to cracked valve seats, and hardened valve guide seals.

Alternator had the screws come out and fall into two halves.

Due to factory defects, the front fenders would perforate from rust.

Defects in the design of the rims would cause the tires to fall off the rims is the air pressure were two pounds low.

There was no way to drain the radiator. No valve on the radiator, the only way was to pull a lower hose, which was located over a chassis strut and would spill fluid everywhere.

I could tune the car to be quick, and competitive with a Corvette of the same vintage. However, it would not last long.

All the stories on recalls and poor construction are true.