1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 28 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 437 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 rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lancia | Lexus |
| Model | Beta | IS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
