1981 Lada Niva vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 1,796 cc, 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 29 kg more than 1981 Lada Niva.
Because 1981 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1181 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
