1996 Lada Niva vs. 1963 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1996 Lada Niva is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 1,690 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lada Niva (79 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1963 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1963 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lada Niva weights approximately 550 kg more than 1963 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Trabant Universal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Lada Niva (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lada Niva | 1963 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Lada | Trabant |
| Model | Niva | Universal |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2030 mm |
