1988 Lada Samara vs. 1970 Subaru R-2
To start off, 1988 Lada Samara is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lada Samara (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1970 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1970 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Samara weights approximately 460 kg more than 1970 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Subaru R-2 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 1970 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara, 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, 1988 Lada Samara (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 1970 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Lada | Subaru |
| Model | Samara | R-2 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 1930 mm |
