1992 Lada Niva vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1992 Lada Niva is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,452 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lada Niva weights approximately 250 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Lada Niva (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lada Niva | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lada | Renault |
| Model | Niva | 12 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 56 L |
