1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1970 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 ZAZ 966 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 73 more horse power than 1970 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1970 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 250 kg more than 1970 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 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 (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 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 1970 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1970 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Lancia | ZAZ |
| Model | Beta | 966 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 887 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2170 mm |
