2002 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta

To start off, 2002 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Jensen SV-8 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 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Jensen SV-8 1975 Lancia Beta
Make Jensen Lancia
Model SV-8 Beta
Year Released 2002 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4601 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 321 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 439 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2360 mm