1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1995 Lada Niva
To start off, 1995 Lada Niva is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,690 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lada Niva (79 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lada Niva weights approximately 245 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Lada Niva (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1995 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1995 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | 131 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1690 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2210 mm |
