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, 1986 Lada Riva (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lada Riva should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 255 kg more than 1986 Lada Riva.
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 (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 17 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. 2004 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1986 Lada Riva has manual transmission. 1986 Lada Riva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2610 mm |
