1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 1609 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2360 mm |
