2005 Lada Niva vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 2005 Lada Niva is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,690 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lada Niva (81 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300.
Because 2005 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Proton 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Lada Niva (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lada Niva | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Lada | Proton |
| Model | Niva | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2450 mm |
