Lada Niva

vs

Lada 2107

USSR vs Russia — 1966 vs 1980

Lada Niva (1966)
Lada 2107 (1980)
Specifications
Niva VAZ-21212107 Standard
Horsepower72 hp77 hp
Torque90 lb-ft90 lb-ft
Engine Size1,568 cc1,568 cc
0-60 mph19.0 sec16.0 sec
Top Speed82 mph93 mph
¼ Mile20.5 sec
Weight2,535 lbs2,337 lbs
Wheelbase2,200 mm2,424 mm
Length3,720 mm4,145 mm
Units Produced2,500,000
Value (Excellent)$15,000$8,000
Collectibility5/103/10
Rarity3/102/10
The Verdict

The 1980 Lada 2107 Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1966 Lada Niva VAZ-2121 counters with stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1966 Lada Niva VAZ-2121 and 1980 Lada 2107 Standard share a manufacturer in Lada, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Lada brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1966 Lada Niva VAZ-2121 producing 72 hp and the 1980 Lada 2107 Standard delivering 77 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lada Niva uses a Inline-4 OHC displacing 1,568 cc, while the Lada 2107 relies on a I4 OHC with 1,568 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Lada 2107 Standard edges ahead at 16.0 seconds versus 19.0 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Lada Niva VAZ-2121 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.