1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Because 1971 Fiat 850 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 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Fiat 850 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 850 | Beta |
Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2550 mm |