1974 Lancia Beta vs. 1985 Saab 900
To start off, 1985 Saab 900 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1985 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Saab 900 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Because 1974 Lancia Beta 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 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Saab 900, 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 (165 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Saab 900. (162 Nm). This means 1974 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 1985 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lancia | Saab |
| Model | Beta | 900 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
