1982 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Lada Niva
To start off, 1988 Lada Niva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Fiat 131 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (57 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 140 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Lada Niva (114 Nm @ 2070 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 1988 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | 131 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1365 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2070 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1190 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 |
