1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1961 Morris Minor
To start off, 1975 Lancia Beta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1961 Morris Minor. (36 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 210 kg more than 1961 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Morris Minor 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 1961 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Morris Minor. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1961 Morris Minor | |
| Make | Lancia | Morris |
| Model | Beta | Minor |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 62.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |
