1957 Fiat 1200 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1975 Lancia Beta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (81 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1957 Fiat 1200. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1957 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 75 kg more than 1957 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Fiat 1200 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 1957 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Fiat 1200. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Fiat 1200 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 1200 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1219 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 49 L |
