1979 Lada 1200 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 22 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 245 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, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Astra (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lada 1200. (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lada 1200 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
