1980 Lancia Beta vs. 1972 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,542 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 1330 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Lincoln Continental 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 1972 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1972 Lincoln Continental (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta. 1972 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 1980 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1980 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 1972 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Lancia | Lincoln |
| Model | Beta | Continental |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 7542 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3230 mm |
