1974 Lada 1200 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1974 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 119 kg more than 1974 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lada 1200 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada 1200 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 53 L |
