1988 Lada Niva vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 1988 Lada Niva is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 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 47 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 454 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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 1978 Renault 4. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Niva | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lada | Renault |
| Model | Niva | 4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
