1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Seat 131
To start off, 1978 Seat 131 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta 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 47 more horse power than 1978 Seat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 71 kg more than 1978 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Seat 131 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 1978 Seat 131. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Seat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1978 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Lancia | Seat |
| Model | Beta | 131 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2500 mm |
