1979 Lada 1200 vs. 1999 Saturn SC
To start off, 1999 Saturn SC is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1979 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saturn SC weights approximately 100 kg more than 1979 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saturn SC, 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, 1999 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lada 1200. (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lada 1200 | 1999 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Lada | Saturn |
| Model | 1200 | SC |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2610 mm |
