1992 Lada Niva vs. 1981 Zastava 1500
To start off, 1992 Lada Niva is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Zastava 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Zastava 1500 would be higher. At 1,480 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Zastava 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Zastava 1500. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1981 Zastava 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lada Niva weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Zastava 1500. 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 1981 Zastava 1500. 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, 1981 Zastava 1500 (113 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Zastava 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lada Niva | 1981 Zastava 1500 | |
| Make | Lada | Zastava |
| Model | Niva | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2430 mm |
