2002 Lada Niva vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Lada Niva is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2002 Lada Niva. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 148 kg more than 2002 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lada Niva. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lada Niva | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Niva | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 137 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |
