1977 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 579 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. 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 (134 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1977 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lancia | Toyota |
| Model | Beta | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 75 L |
