1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1974 Lancia Beta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 420 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (109 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Valiant | Beta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2360 mm |
