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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 100 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 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, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1980 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
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 | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2360 mm |
