1981 Lada Niva vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lada Niva weights approximately 127 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Lada Niva (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada Niva | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 75 L |
