1974 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1974 Lancia Beta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lancia Beta weights approximately 275 kg more than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Triumph Spitfire 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 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Lancia Beta (109 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. (93 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1974 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 1966 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Lancia | Triumph |
| Model | Beta | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 37 L |
