1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 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 144 kg more than 1977 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, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1977 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 | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 131 | Beta |
Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
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 | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1036 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |