1990 Lada Niva vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,451 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Because 1990 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Smart ForTwo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lada Niva | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Lada | Smart |
| Model | Niva | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1451 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 33 L |
