1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 185 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2420 mm |
