1980 Lada Niva vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
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 RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1980 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lada Niva weights approximately 90 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1980 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda RX-7. 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 RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Niva | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 65 L |
