1983 Lada Niva vs. 2004 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1983 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1983 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Meriva weights approximately 236 kg more than 1983 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2004 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lada Niva | 2004 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Niva | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 53 L |
