1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1974 Lancia Beta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Dodge Challenger (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 345 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Dodge Challenger 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 1972 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1972 Dodge Challenger (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (109 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Dodge | Lancia |
| Model | Challenger | Beta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3678 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2360 mm |
