1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1977 Lancia Beta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Lancia Beta weights approximately 216 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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. 1977 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Lotus | Lancia |
| Model | Elan | Beta |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 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 | 820 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 59 L |
