1971 Chrysler Centura vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Centura (119 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 115 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Centura 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 1971 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1971 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Centura | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Centura | Beta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2360 mm |
