2003 Ford Ka vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 3 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 Ford Ka, 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 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Ford | Lada |
| Model | Ka | Riva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2420 mm |
