1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Lada Niva
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1988 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Niva. (110 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1988 Lada Niva | |
| Make | BMW | Lada |
| Model | Z3 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1568 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 43 L |
