1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Lancia Beta weights approximately 390 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 1998 Caterham C21 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | C21 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
