1981 Lada Niva vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 31 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lada Niva. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1981 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada Niva | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Niva | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 93 L |
