1988 Lada Niva vs. 1976 Mazda 818
To start off, 1988 Lada Niva is newer by 12 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 1,568 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lada Niva (81 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 148 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mazda 818. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Lada Niva (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Niva | 1976 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Niva | 818 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2320 mm |
