1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 Lada Niva
To start off, 2012 Lada Niva is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2012 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2012 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lada Niva weights approximately 97 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Because 2012 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lada Niva. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2012 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Datsun | Lada |
| Model | Laurel | Niva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1690 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
