1988 Lada Samara vs. 1973 Volvo 145
To start off, 1988 Lada Samara is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volvo 145 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 145 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 145 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 1973 Volvo 145. 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, 1973 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1973 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 1973 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Lada | Volvo |
| Model | Samara | 145 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
