1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1972 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Chrysler Valiant is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1972 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 420 kg more than 1972 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Lancia Beta. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1972 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Valiant | Beta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1755 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2360 mm |
