1977 Lancia Beta vs. 1957 MG MGA
To start off, 1977 Lancia Beta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Lancia Beta (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Lancia Beta weights approximately 125 kg more than 1957 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 MG MGA 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 1957 MG MGA. 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, 1977 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 1957 MG MGA | |
| Make | Lancia | MG |
| Model | Beta | MGA |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2390 mm |
