1974 Lada Riva vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 268 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, 2004 Opel Astra, 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada Riva | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Riva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1057 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2700 mm |
