“Move over, Niva Sport—there’s a more powerful classic in town. A highly modified, one-of-a-kind Lada Niva has appeared for sale on the Drom portal in Altai Krai, Russia, priced at an affordable 550,000 rubles. What makes this 1981 classic truly special is the Japanese powerhouse under its hood: a Toyota 3S-GE BEAMS engine.
While the original documents date the car back to 1981, its modern exterior and high-performance heart tell a different story. The ‘BEAMS’ engine variant suggests a staggering output of at least 180 hp, paired with a rugged 5-speed manual transmission. To manage this massive power leap, the owner overhauled the SUV in 2020, mounting the transfer case on a custom subframe and installing reinforced driveshafts with new universal joints.
The modifications don’t stop at the engine. The 4WD system remains fully functional, while the chassis was completely refreshed last winter. This ‘Frankenstein’ Niva also boasts a mix of premium upgrades, including Toyota Camry door handles, 17-inch Honda alloy wheels, and full LED lighting. Inside, the cabin is sound-insulated and features a modern Lada 21214 dashboard, paired with Lada Priora seats and electric power steering for a more comfortable drive.”
