1997 Lada Niva vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,690 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Lada Niva. (79 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lada Niva weights approximately 87 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lada Niva. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lada Niva. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1997 Lada Niva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lada Niva | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Niva | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 61 L |
