1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Beta weights approximately 246 kg more than 1948 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Fiat 500 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 1948 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 500 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 52 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2550 mm |
