1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 268 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 325 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 351 Nm |
| 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 | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2310 mm |
