1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1962 Peugeot 404
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Peugeot 404. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Peugeot 404 would be higher. At 1,618 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Peugeot 404 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1962 Peugeot 404. (72 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1962 Peugeot 404. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Peugeot 404 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Because 1962 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 1962 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, 1962 Peugeot 404 (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Peugeot 404 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1962 Peugeot 404 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 404 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| 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 | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
