1977 Lada 1200 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1977 Lada 1200. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 380 kg more than 1977 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 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 (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lada 1200. (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lada 1200 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 167 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 | 945 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 52 L |
