1989 Holden Nova vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Beta (118 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 25 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1976 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Holden | Lancia |
| Model | Nova | Beta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2340 mm |
