2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 31 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 5,645 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (335 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 842 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.
Because 1978 Lancia Beta 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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, 2009 Chrysler 300 (525 Nm) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 300 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5645 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
