1986 Lada Riva vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lada Riva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lada Riva would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Lada Riva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 315 kg more than 1986 Lada Riva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Riva. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Riva | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | Riva | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1569 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2700 mm |
