2009 Lada 21 vs. 1988 Lada Niva
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lada 21 (80 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Lada 21.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lada 21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Lada 21 (120 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Niva. (114 Nm @ 2070 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lada 21 | 1988 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Lada | Lada |
| Model | 21 | Niva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2070 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 45 L |
