1988 Lada Niva vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 1988 Lada Niva is newer by 14 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 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lada Riva (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (57 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lada Riva should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 133 kg more than 1974 Lada Riva.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Lada Riva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Lada Niva (114 Nm @ 2070 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Niva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Niva | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Lada | Lada |
| Model | Niva | Riva |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2070 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 120 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2420 mm |
