1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1977 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1977 Opel Kadett is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 180 kg more than 1977 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Opel Kadett 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 1977 Opel Kadett. 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 (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1977 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 43 L |
