1987 Lada Niva vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lada Niva would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1987 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 170 kg more than 1987 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Saturn L. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Niva | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Lada | Saturn |
| Model | Niva | L |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 62 L |
