1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Lexus SC
To start off, 2005 Lexus SC is newer by 27 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 4,292 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus SC (278 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus SC weights approximately 702 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.
Because 2005 Lexus SC 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 2005 Lexus SC. 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, 2005 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2005 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2005 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Lancia | Lexus |
| Model | Beta | SC |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 4292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 278 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 66 L |
