1975 Lada 1200 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1975 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 480 kg more than 1975 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lada 1200 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 52 L |
