2009 Lada 21 vs. 1974 Lada 1200
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lada 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lada 21 (89 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Lada 1200. (61 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1974 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lada 1200 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 1974 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21, 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, 2009 Lada 21 (131 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lada 21 | 1974 Lada 1200 | |
| Make | Lada | Lada |
| Model | 21 | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 61 HP |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 46 L |
