1982 Lada Niva vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1982 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1982 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lada Niva | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Niva | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1451 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
