1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1984 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1984 Lancia Beta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,366 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Beta (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Beta weights approximately 375 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Lancia Beta (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1984 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Datsun | Lancia |
| Model | 1000 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1366 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2360 mm |
