1987 Lada Samara vs. 1976 Mazda 818
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lada Samara (74 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mazda 818 weights approximately 77 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara.
Because 1976 Mazda 818 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1987 Lada Samara (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1976 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Samara | 818 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2320 mm |
