1988 Lada Samara vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 790 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Lada | Nissan |
| Model | Samara | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
