2009 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Lada Riva
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 35 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1974 Lada Riva. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada Riva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lada Riva weights approximately 27 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 2009 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada Riva. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada Riva. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1974 Lada Riva has manual transmission. 1974 Lada Riva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1974 Lada Riva | |
| Make | Audi | Lada |
| Model | A3 | Riva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
