1981 Lada Niva vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 158 kg more than 1981 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada Niva | 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Niva | B |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 54 L |
