1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,756 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1966 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1966 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 354 kg more than 1966 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 ZAZ 966 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 ZAZ 966. 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 (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1966 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Lancia | ZAZ |
| Model | Beta | 966 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 887 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 744 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2170 mm |
