2008 Toyota Matrix vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 30 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 1543 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Toyota Matrix (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 1978 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2008 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2008 Toyota Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Matrix | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Toyota | Lancia |
| Model | Matrix | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2581 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
