2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 29 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 496 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta. 1975 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | 7 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2480 mm |
