1995 Lada Niva vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1995 Lada Niva is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1995 Lada Niva. (78 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1995 Lada Niva.
Because 1995 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Volvo 242. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lada Niva. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lada Niva | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Lada | Volvo |
| Model | Niva | 242 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
