USSR vs USSR — 1966 vs 1977
| Niva VAZ-2121 | Niva 2121 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 72 hp | — |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,568 cc | 1,568 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 82 mph | — |
| Weight | 2,535 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,200 mm | — |
| Length | 3,720 mm | — |
| Units Produced | 2,500,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1966 Lada Niva VAZ-2121 brings its unique character to the table, and the 1977 Lada Niva 2121 answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Lada Niva. The 1966 and 1977 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. Both cars represent compelling choices in their respective segments. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.