1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1984 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1984 Lancia Beta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Beta (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Beta weights approximately 126 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1984 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 124 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 59 L |
