1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1985 Chrysler Laser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (100 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1985 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Chrysler Laser weights approximately 185 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1985 Chrysler Laser (179 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1985 Chrysler Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chrysler Laser | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Laser | Beta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
