1986 Lada Niva vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1986 Lada Niva is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lada Niva weights approximately 50 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1986 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Niva. 1976 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1986 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1986 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Niva | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Lada | Chrysler |
| Model | Niva | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2670 mm |
