1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. Both 1974 Fiat 131 and 1979 Lancia Beta are equipped with a 1,297 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lancia Beta (81 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lancia Beta weights approximately 35 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1979 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2360 mm |
