2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 546 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 2002 Caterham Superlight R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta. 1976 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2002 Caterham Superlight R has manual transmission. 2002 Caterham Superlight R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | Superlight R | Beta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2480 mm |
