1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1990 Dodge Caravan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Dodge Caravan (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 575 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1990 Dodge Caravan (251 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Dodge Caravan | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Dodge | Lancia |
| Model | Caravan | Beta |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2360 mm |
