1986 Lada Riva vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Lada Riva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 340 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 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Riva. (122 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Riva | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riva | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1569 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2470 mm |
