1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Lada Niva
To start off, 1998 Lada Niva is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Lada Niva. (79 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lada Niva weights approximately 105 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Because 1998 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lada Niva. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1998 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | 131 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2210 mm |
