1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1999 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 23 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 225 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Because 1999 Toyota MR2 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 1999 Toyota MR2. 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, 1999 Toyota MR2 (183 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (177 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1999 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lancia | Toyota |
| Model | Beta | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 48 L |
