1974 Lada Riva vs. 1979 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1979 Toyota Tercel is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lada Riva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada Riva would be higher. At 1,450 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lada Riva is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lada Riva weights approximately 240 kg more than 1979 Toyota Tercel.
Because 1974 Lada Riva 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 1974 Lada Riva. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Toyota Tercel, 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. 1979 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1974 Lada Riva has manual transmission. 1974 Lada Riva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada Riva | 1979 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Lada | Toyota |
| Model | Riva | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1450 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 0 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2510 mm |
