1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 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 16 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Elan |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2260 mm |
