1989 Austin Maestro vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 1989 Austin Maestro is newer by 15 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 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 66 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lada Riva weights approximately 81 kg more than 1989 Austin Maestro.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lada Riva. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Austin Maestro, 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, 1989 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Maestro | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Austin | Lada |
| Model | Maestro | Riva |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
