1964 Porsche 904 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Porsche 904. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Porsche 904 would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Porsche 904 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Porsche 904 (177 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Porsche 904 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Beta weights approximately 339 kg more than 1964 Porsche 904.
Because 1964 Porsche 904 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 Porsche 904. 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. 1978 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1964 Porsche 904 has manual transmission. 1964 Porsche 904 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Porsche 904 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Porsche | Lancia |
| Model | 904 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 699 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
