1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1983 Lancia Beta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Lancia Beta (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Lancia Beta weights approximately 71 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 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, 1983 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1983 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1983 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 131 | Beta |
Year Released | 1978 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 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 | 2550 mm |