1985 Lada Niva vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1985 Lada Niva is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1985 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1985 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 300 kg more than 1985 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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. 1974 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1985 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1985 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lada Niva | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lada | Pontiac |
| Model | Niva | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2750 mm |
