1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1973 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 Fiat 131. 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 (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1973 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 131 | Beta |
Year Released | 1978 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |