1978 Lancia Beta vs. 1990 Saab 900
To start off, 1990 Saab 900 is newer by 12 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 900 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 1990 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lancia | Saab |
| Model | Beta | 900 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2530 mm |
