1981 Lada Niva vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 363 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 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada Niva | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1515 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 |
