2009 Lada 21 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
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 Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Senator would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (115 HP) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Lada 21. (80 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2009 Lada 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 240 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 Senator 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 Senator. 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 Senator (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lada 21. (120 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator 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 Senator | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2690 mm |
