1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1961 Peugeot 404
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Peugeot 404. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Peugeot 404 would be higher. At 1,618 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Peugeot 404 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1961 Peugeot 404. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 Peugeot 404. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Peugeot 404 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Because 1961 Peugeot 404 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 1961 Peugeot 404. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 Lancia Beta (129 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Peugeot 404. (127 Nm). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Peugeot 404.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1961 Peugeot 404 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 404 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1618 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
