1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 1973 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1997 Chrysler Viper is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 7,984 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1973 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1973 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 492 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 476 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 1973 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | Viper | Beta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 1756 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
