1991 Lada Niva vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1991 Lada Niva is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,853 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Saab 99 (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1991 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lada Niva weights approximately 30 kg more than 1971 Saab 99.
Because 1991 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Saab 99. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1971 Saab 99 (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lada Niva | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Lada | Saab |
| Model | Niva | 99 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
