1985 Lada Niva vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,452 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1985 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 kg more than 1985 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2011 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lada Niva | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
