1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 16 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 490 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | Super 7 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 49 L |
