2009 Lada 21 vs. 1985 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2009 Lada 21 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lada 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lada 21 (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 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 1985 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 2009 Lada 21 has manual transmission. 2009 Lada 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Opel Kadett will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Lada 21 1985 Opel Kadett
Make Lada Opel
Model 21 Kadett
Year Released 2009 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 59 HP
Torque 131 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.6 mm 61 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1074 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4110 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2420 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 40 L