1974 Lada Riva vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (80 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 164 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada Riva | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riva | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1450 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2580 mm |
