1981 Lada Niva vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 351 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 2008 Opel Vectra. 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 Vectra (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 61 L |
