1970 Peugeot 404 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Peugeot 404. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Peugeot 404 would be higher. At 1,618 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Peugeot 404 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1970 Peugeot 404. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1970 Peugeot 404. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Peugeot 404 weights approximately 27 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Because 1970 Peugeot 404 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 1970 Peugeot 404. 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 1970 Peugeot 404 has manual transmission. 1970 Peugeot 404 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:
| 1970 Peugeot 404 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Peugeot | Lancia |
| Model | 404 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
