1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1972 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1976 Chrysler Valiant is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1972 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1972 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 610 kg more than 1972 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (470 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Lancia Beta. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Valiant | 1972 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Valiant | Beta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5209 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2360 mm |
