2009 Lada 21 vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett 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 38 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Kadett 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 1978 Opel Kadett. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lada 21 | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 43 L |
