1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1975 Lancia Beta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 304 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Elan |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |
