1981 Lada Niva vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 238 kg more than 1981 Lada Niva. 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 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lada Niva. 2005 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1981 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1981 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada Niva | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
