1978 Lada 1600 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lada 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lada 1600 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Lada 1600. (78 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Lada 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 595 kg more than 1978 Lada 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Lada 1600 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 1978 Lada 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lada 1600. (122 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lada 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lada 1600 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 52 L |
