1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1979 Datsun Laurel is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 188 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun Laurel 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 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Datsun | Lancia |
| Model | Laurel | Beta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 49 L |
