1980 Lada Niva vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lada Niva 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 121 more horse power than 1980 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 236 kg more than 1980 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lada Niva | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
