1987 Lada Samara vs. 1968 Opel Olympia
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Olympia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Olympia would be higher. At 1,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lada Samara (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1968 Opel Olympia. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1968 Opel Olympia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lada Samara weights approximately 145 kg more than 1968 Opel Olympia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Opel Olympia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Opel Olympia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1987 Lada Samara (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Opel Olympia. (86 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Opel Olympia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1968 Opel Olympia | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Samara | Olympia |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1078 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
