1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Saleen S7
To start off, 2006 Saleen S7 is newer by 27 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 650 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saleen S7 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Saleen S7 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 2006 Saleen S7. 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, 2006 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 815 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2006 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Lancia | Saleen |
| Model | Beta | S7 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 399 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2692 mm |
