1997 Lada Niva Hussar 1.7i

Summary:

Just get one and fall in love

Faults:

Nothing that matters.

Put new tailgate struts on, as the old ones died, but a broom handle did the same.

Soon to change the ball joints and track rod ends, but that's just wear and tear.

Had to put a fuel vapour tank thing in, as mine was missing, strange things previous owners remove LOL.

General Comments:

It's slow and rusty, it smells very odd, it shakes and rolls, and it's thirsty, but I love it so much.

It has charm, is easy to fix, parts in England are cheap at Lada UK Ltd.

When it really breaks, it is very easy to fix.

Great off road and it has a very cult classic style.

If you're poor like me, or want a cool car, buy one. They're dead cheap - mine was £450!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th July, 2006

13th Jul 2006, 20:04

Good review! The Niva is developing a cult status throughout the world as a unique car. It is cheap to buy and maintain, and is fun to drive. It is also VERY safe in case of a collision. The Niva has military origins - its like driving a small tank, that can handle virtually any terrain.

1986 Lada Niva 1600 RHD 1.6 petrol

Summary:

Did its job better than the Landrover Series III I had before

Faults:

Grease in front hub bearings went hard.

Carburetter failed and was replaced by a Weber, which was not a straightforward job.

Rust appeared on rear of front outer wings.

Sills rusted.

New rubber doughnut coupling required between 5F1R gearbox and transfer box.

Starter motor solenoid became intermittent.

General Comments:

Very good mechanically.

Tailgate design very poor: inadequate aperture, and too low when raised.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th April, 2002

24th May 2002, 08:20

The tailgate opening height can be improved by fitting different struts. I took the struts from mine to a strut-rebuilding company who found a match that extended more. It now opens to a good height without banging my head - and I am 6 feet tall.

4th Oct 2005, 00:10

You can still get parts for them OK.

www.ladaparts.com / andrew@ladaparts.com

cherie@ladaparts.co.nz

These guys are brilliant, and send all over the place...

Hope this helps.

Doug.