1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 162 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 1978 Lancia Beta 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156, 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 (165 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm). This means 1978 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
Model | 156 | Beta |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1746 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1068 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |