1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1971 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1976 Lancia Beta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Centura (119 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 115 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Centura 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 1971 Chrysler Centura. 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 (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler Centura. 1971 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 1976 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1976 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1971 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Lancia | Chrysler |
| Model | Beta | Centura |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2680 mm |
