1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1973 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1973 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 98 kg more than 1973 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lancia Beta 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 304, 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1973 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 304 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 42 L |
