1986 Lada Riva vs. 2009 Lada 21
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 is newer by 23 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lada 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lada 21 (89 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Lada Riva. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 10 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, 2009 Lada 21, 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 Lada 21 (131 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Riva. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Riva | 2009 Lada 21 | |
| Make | Lada | Lada |
| Model | Riva | 21 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1569 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2500 mm |
