1988 Lada Niva vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Niva would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (57 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 620 kg more than 1988 Lada Niva. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Niva. (114 Nm @ 2070 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Niva. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1988 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Niva | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Niva | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2070 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 88 L |
