1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 Renault 8
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Renault 8 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1966 Renault 8. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1966 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 250 kg more than 1966 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Renault 8 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 1966 Renault 8. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Renault 8. (78 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Renault 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1966 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Renault |
| Model | Beta | 8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 78 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 130 km/hour |
| 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 | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 38 L |
