1986 Lada Niva vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lada Niva would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1986 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 390 kg more than 1986 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Niva. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Niva | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Niva | SLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
