1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 19 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 582 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Ford | Lancia |
Model | Thunderbird | Beta |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 71.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1038 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |