1978 Lancia Beta vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1979 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
