2008 Lada Niva vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Lada Niva is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lada Niva weights approximately 46 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lada Niva. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lada Niva | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Niva | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 19 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
