1980 Lada Niva vs. 1979 Mazda 929
To start off, 1980 Lada Niva is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 929 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lada Niva.
Because 1980 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 929. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Mazda 929 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lada Niva | 1979 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Niva | 929 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
