1977 Lancia Beta vs. 1954 Oldsmobile 98
To start off, 1977 Lancia Beta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Oldsmobile 98. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Oldsmobile 98 would be higher. At 5,320 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Oldsmobile 98 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Oldsmobile 98 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Oldsmobile 98 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 1954 Oldsmobile 98. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1954 Oldsmobile 98 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 1954 Oldsmobile 98 | |
| Make | Lancia | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Beta | 98 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5320 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3210 mm |
