by Alongside ordinary cars, the British car website Carwow has recently started testing cars like the Bugatti Chiron SuperSport. However, the Brits also pay attention to other no less rare and exclusive models for Britain, such as the Lada Niva Legend.
As the Brits note, despite being developed in the ’70s, it is still on sale today. But before discussing impressions of this car, let’s note that the asking price of 17,595 British pounds (23,762 USD) in the UK market is too high, considering that the base price in Russia is only 659,900 rubles (9,317 USD). And now literally (almost):
“As for the style, Lada Niva Legend hasn’t changed much since 1977. The most notable update among the numerous facelifts occurred in 2014 when changes were made to the Urban trim and different bumpers were integrated, although other variants retained the traditional style. The 2020 update focused on the interior, though with such an old car, little can be done—especially regarding safety.
Watson (Carwow editor) says that despite the old-fashioned interior using outdated technology and hard scratchy plastic, it’s well assembled. The Luxe version he tested is equipped with features such as electric windows, air conditioning, heated front seats, and a stereo system. As expected, the rear seat space is minimal (although a longer five-door version is available), and the boot space is 265 liters, which nowadays you can get from city cars.
Thanks to the soft suspension and monocoque design, driving the Niva feels much more pleasant than expected, though, as Matt suggests, gear shifting seems a bit agricultural. Driving on open roads showcases the moderate capabilities of the 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 82 horsepower. (In the video below, you can assess the acceleration from 0 to 60 km/h, which took an ‘endless’ 19.09 seconds.
Steering doesn’t provide the necessary precision, and there’s a fair amount of body roll, but the Niva isn’t intended for that. Off-road, the old 4×4 stands out due to its permanent all-wheel drive with a central differential lock and low gear ratios.
Watson’s verdict is that most people should probably avoid the “Niva Legend”; however, if you like unique cars, he advises the Niva.”
Did you know that the German tuning atelier Lorinser took on the Lada Niva? We also recommend checking out how the fastest Niva in the world with 2,500 horsepower, made in Ukraine, looks!
