1974 Lada Riva vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (89 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (80 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 160 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.
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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada Riva | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riva | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1450 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
