2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1986 Lada Riva
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lada Riva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lada Riva would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1986 Lada Riva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1986 Lada Riva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lada Riva. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Riva. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Riva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1986 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lada |
| Model | 159 | Riva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2420 mm |
