1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 6 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 18 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lada Riva should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lada Riva weights approximately 306 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 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, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1974 Lada Riva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Austin | Lada |
| Model | Mini Metro | Riva |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1450 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |
