1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1994 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1994 TVR Chimaera is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lancia Beta weights approximately 11 kg more than 1994 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1994 TVR Chimaera 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 1994 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1994 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1994 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Lancia | TVR |
| Model | Beta | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 57 L |
