1974 Lada Riva vs. 1991 Mazda 323
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 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. In terms of performance, 1974 Lada Riva (80 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lada Riva should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lada Riva weights approximately 135 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Mazda 323, 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, 1974 Lada Riva (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1974 Lada Riva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada Riva | 1991 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Riva | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1450 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2460 mm |
