How much horsepower does a 1972 Yenko Vega have?
A 1972 Yenko Vega did not have a single fixed horsepower figure; horsepower varied by model and modifications. In typical Yenko configurations, most cars produced roughly 150 to 180 horsepower, with some high-performance builds rated higher depending on equipment and tuning.
Context: Yenko and the Vega
The Yenko operation, known for converting Chevrolets into high-performance machines, offered a Vega program during the early 1970s. The goal was to extract more power from Chevrolet’s lightweight Vega platform through tuning, exhaust, and other enhancements. Production numbers were limited, and the exact horsepower depended on the specific package and car configuration.
Power ranges by configuration
Before diving into specifics, note that the Vega’s horsepower in Yenko’s hands varied with the package, carburetion, exhaust system, and any forced-induction or advanced tuning applied. The following categories reflect the most commonly cited configurations among collectors and registries.
- Stinger package (Yenko’s primary performance upgrade) — estimated horsepower typically in the range of 150–180 hp, depending on induction, exhaust, and tuning specifics.
- Base or mildly tuned Yenko variants — estimated horsepower roughly 120–140 hp, reflecting lighter modifications and factory emissions controls of the era.
- Garage/custom builds and post-sale modifications — horsepower can vary widely, commonly 140–190 hp or more, depending on the extent of modifications and the equipment installed.
These ranges reflect common figures reported by enthusiasts, registries, and historical documentation. Exact horsepower for a given 1972 Yenko Vega should be verified with the vehicle’s build sheet, option codes, and any restoration notes.
What to verify when researching a specific car
Because horsepower figures can differ between individual cars, collectors should check the original build sheet, VIN, option codes, and any available documentation from Yenko or Chevrolet. Restoration records and period advertisements can also provide context for the specific configuration of a given Vega.
Summary: The 1972 Yenko Vega did not have a universal horsepower rating. Most Yenko Vega models from that era land in a broad range around 150–180 horsepower for the main performance package, with variations up and down based on engineering tweaks, emissions equipment, and aftermarket modifications. For a precise figure, consult the car’s build documentation and registry records.
What was the problem with the Vega engine?
The Vega's aluminum engine was notorious for buckling and leaking." By May 1972, six out of every seven Vegas produced was the subject of a recall. Development and upgrades continued throughout the car's seven-year production run, addressing its engine and cost-related issues.
How much horsepower did the 1972 LT1 have?
255
The legendary LT1 power plant was introduced in 1970 in the Camaro and Corvette. It was rated at 370 horsepower, but by 1972 the compression ratio was lowered and the horsepower rating was changed from SAE gross to SAE net and the horsepower dropped to 255.
How much horsepower does a 427 Yenko have?
Racer and world-renowned Chevrolet performance dealer Don Yenko sold 201 of these iconic machines, which followed his famous plan: take an assembly-line Camaro equipped with a four speed, power disc brakes, aluminum 4-core radiator and heavy duty suspension, and pack it with a 450-horsepower L72 427 engine.
How much horsepower does a Yenko Vega have?
Model: Vega Wagon Yenko Stinger II. Engine: 140 ci/200 hp.
