1985 Lada Niva vs. 2003 MG ZS
To start off, 2003 MG ZS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lada Niva would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG ZS (175 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1985 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 1985 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZS weights approximately 185 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 2003 MG ZS. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 MG ZS (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 MG ZS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lada Niva | 2003 MG ZS | |
| Make | Lada | MG |
| Model | Niva | ZS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 82.8 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 | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
