1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 175 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Lancia | Nissan |
| Model | Beta | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2400 mm |
