1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1976 Lancia Beta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 144 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta. 1976 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III has manual transmission. 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lancia |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Beta |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
