2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Lada Niva
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,559 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lada Niva weights approximately 162 kg more than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1981 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Citroen Xsara. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Citroen | Lada |
| Model | Xsara | Niva |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
