1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1976 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 1 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 1,918 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 189 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. 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 (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 1609 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
