1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1973 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,756 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 8 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Lancia Beta (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1973 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 1609 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1756 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |
