1971 BMW 3 vs. 1974 Lada Riva

To start off, 1974 Lada Riva is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 384 kg more than 1974 Lada Riva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 1974 Lada Riva
Make BMW Lada
Model 3 Riva
Year Released 1971 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1198 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 180 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 87 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 76 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 66 mm
Top Speed 211 km/hour 143 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 996 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4130 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2420 mm