Images
1 / 2
Tell your mates you're in the market for a second-hand Lada and chances are, they'll tell you to save up and buy something else. But if the budget is tight and you want a small off-roader, the Niva's what you'll want. It may not be the world's most advanced vehicle, but its simple mechanicals and basic equipment levels mean there are not too many things to go wrong.
The Niva was sold in the UK from 1979 until 1997, when the importers regretfully closed the new car order books. Electronic engine management and fuel injection was needed for both the Niva and its family-car brother, the Samara, to meet EC exhaust emission standards. Strapped for cash, the factory simply could not afford to develop the new technology or buy it from the one American supplier that had the ideal system.
Niva buyers have tended to be a mixture of dedicated four-wheel drive enthusiasts, farmers and those who fancy something like a big off-roader but whose bank manager disagrees. Enthusiasts now eagerly seeking out the last cars.
+ More
What you get
Something that's been designed for off-road use first and foremost, so don't expect it to drive like a miniature Discovery. The jazzed-up versions are perhaps not ideal, as the Niva was never designed to be a Suzuki Vitara competitor. It wears its frills a little uncomfortably. Go for the basic models - they're honest, rugged and cheap, to boot.
+ More
What to look for
The transmission system on the Niva can give trouble if the high/low range drive has not been used regularly. It may get stuck and cause all kinds of drive problems. Check all the differentials, engine sump and gearbox for oil leaks. Alternators have been known to be unreliable, too.
Corrosion can rear its ugly head in the doors (where they meet the glass) and the tailgate, so have a good look for bubbles in the paintwork.
On the inside, believe it or not, the dashboard can work its way loose and come off at an inopportune moment, so check the mounting points. The rest of the interior also tends to be a little on the flimsy side, so don't be disappointed to find the odd switch or button missing and the seat fabric frayed.
+ More
Replacement parts
(Based on a 1993 model) Here's where a Lada has the last laugh - prices are amazingly cheap. A new clutch is only about £70 and a full exhaust under £120. Brake pads are under £20, a headlamp is about £30, and a radiator is less than £90.
+ More
On the road
A Niva is not at its best on the motorway, but it will be able to plough its way through a muddy field. If your daily grind is on greasy B roads, rather than the central London crawl, then your Niva will have a chance to show what it was designed for. Think of it as an off-roader that you can drive on the road and you'll be forgiving of the basic nature of its dynamics.
+ More
Overall
Not a vehicle for those who can't live without all the latest technology. For the money, a Niva is a good buy and its style of basic features with off-roading ability appeals to many. In fact, if you want to get into off-roading and money is tight, give the little Russian a try.
+ More
Have you considered these alternative models...
Find a Review
We have over 500 new and used car reviews to help you find your next car.
Browse reviews and model guides for all makes
