1997 Lada Niva review from Russia
"A mountain goat on and off the road.."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Windshield washer pumps failed, cost 8 dollars to replace.
2nd Differential rusted in place, no repair estimate yet.
Carburetor failed, cost 150 dollars to replace it and some starter pieces.
Exhaust system completely rusted out, unknown repair cost.
Left front ball joint cracked. Cost 20 dollars to replace.
General comments?
Considering the car cost $200 I have no complaints. It handles Moscow weather with no problems, easily scooting up hills and through large slushy pot-holes. Having driven off-road (before the differential went south), I can say you cannot buy off-road performance like this anywhere else. It rocks!. Handling is predictable, albeit slow. Highway performance is passable, pick-up is mediocre. It is oriented towards off-road driving, and this is what you get. I would happily buy another one given the chance.
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| Little 4x4 with a soul |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.7 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 55000 kilometres |
| Previous car | SAAB 900 |
| Date of Entry | 28th December, 2003 |