1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1976 Lancia Beta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Beta (100 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 184 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Porsche 356 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 1956 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 Lancia Beta (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (110 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lancia | Porsche |
| Model | Beta | 356 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 163 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 Weight | 1036 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
