1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Beta weights approximately 173 kg more than 1958 Ford 12 M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | 12 M | Beta |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
