2009 Lada 21 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
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 Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Rekord (90 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Lada 21. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 2009 Lada 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Rekord weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 Lada 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Rekord. 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, 1978 Opel Rekord (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lada 21. (131 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lada 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lada 21 | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 65 L |
