1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1984 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1984 Lancia Beta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Beta (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Beta weights approximately 619 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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. 1984 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1955 Fairthorpe Atom has manual transmission. 1955 Fairthorpe Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1984 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Lancia |
| Model | Atom | Beta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 59 L |
