1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1987 Lada Samara
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lada Samara (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lada Samara weights approximately 211 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Lada Samara (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1987 Lada Samara | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lada |
| Model | Sprite | Samara |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 43 L |
