1959 Fiat 1500 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1500 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1500. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1500.
Because 1959 Fiat 1500 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 1959 Fiat 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Lancia Beta (134 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1500. (109 Nm). This means 1978 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1500.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Fiat 1500 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 1500 | Beta |
Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 134 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 71.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2550 mm |