1988 Lada Samara vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 705 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Samara | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
