1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1980 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 5 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 1609 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |
