1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1961 ZAZ Jalta
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 ZAZ Jalta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 ZAZ Jalta would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1961 ZAZ Jalta. (23 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 ZAZ Jalta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lancia Beta weights approximately 400 kg more than 1961 ZAZ Jalta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 ZAZ Jalta 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 1961 ZAZ Jalta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 ZAZ Jalta. (45 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 ZAZ Jalta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1961 ZAZ Jalta | |
| Make | Lancia | ZAZ |
| Model | Beta | Jalta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 748 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 45 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2030 mm |
