1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 577 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Lancia Beta (134 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1978 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 1978 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Toyota | Lancia |
| Model | MR2 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 59 L |
