1949 MG TD vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1977 Lancia Beta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Lancia Beta weights approximately 160 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 1949 MG TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1977 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | MG | Lancia |
| Model | TD | Beta |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
