2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 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 1,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1974 Lada Riva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lada |
| Model | 156 | Riva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 66 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2420 mm |
