1988 Lada Niva vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 475 kg more than 1988 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Niva | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
