USSR vs Russia — 1966 vs 1980
| 2101 Zhiguli (VAZ-2101) | Riva 1500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 62 hp | — |
| Torque | 64 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,198 cc | 1,452 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 87 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 21.0 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,424 mm | — |
| Length | 4,073 mm | — |
| Units Produced | 4,850,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 2/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1966 Lada 2101 Zhiguli (VAZ-2101) brings its unique character to the table, and the 1980 Lada Riva 1500 answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Lada has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1966 Lada 2101 Zhiguli (VAZ-2101) with the 1980 Lada Riva 1500 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. Both cars represent compelling choices in their respective segments. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.