1982 Fiat 131 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1982 Fiat 131 is newer by 7 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 1,365 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Fiat 131 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Because 1982 Fiat 131 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 1982 Fiat 131. 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, both vehicles can yield 108 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1365 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2360 mm |
