1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Viper is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 590 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chrysler Viper 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 1996 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1996 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 512 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Viper | Beta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
