| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1972 |
| Production Years: | 1976 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
The Lancia Beta (828) sedan, produced between 1976 and 1985, represents a distinctive chapter in Lancia's automotive history. This generation, part of the Beta family which initially debuted in 1972, offered a well-balanced mid-size sedan option in the European market with Italian styling and engineering heritage. While exact dimensions may vary slightly depending on the specific model variant and production year, the Beta (828) showcased characteristic compact proportions tailored for comfortable urban and suburban driving.
Typically, this generation of the Beta sedan measured approximately 4.3 meters (about 169 inches) in length, placing it firmly in the mid-size category typical of European sedans of the era. The width was around 1.6 meters (63 inches), enabling a streamlined profile that contributed to improved aerodynamics and handling. Its height generally stood near 1.34 meters (53 inches), delivering a low roofline that balanced interior space with dynamic aesthetics.
Weights ranged around 1,000 to 1,100 kilograms (2,200 to 2,425 lbs), which allowed it to achieve a responsive driving experience typical for Lancia’s engineering focus on both performance and comfort. These dimensions made the Beta sedan a practical yet stylish vehicle, well-suited for daily commuting and long-distance travel alike. The car featured traditional rear-wheel drive layout and was appreciated for its balanced handling and robust build quality.
When compared to other mid-size sedans of the 1970s and early 1980s, the Lancia Beta (828) stood out for its combination of Italian design elegance and functional size. Its footprint was slightly more compact than many contemporaneous sedans from larger manufacturers, emphasizing agility and urban practicality. Additionally, the Beta included a range of engines and trim levels that catered to varied market preferences, further enhancing its appeal.
Overall, the Lancia Beta (828) sedan remains a notable classic with dimensions and specifications reflecting Lancia’s commitment to producing refined, driver-focused vehicles during its production period. This generation highlights a unique blend of efficient space utilization, classic Italian design cues, and driving dynamics that attract enthusiasts and collectors today.
Discover the standout features that make the 1972 Lancia Beta a leader in its class
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The Lancia Beta (828) sedan features a length of approximately 4,215 mm (165.9 inches), a width of about 1,672 mm (65.8 inches), and a height around 1,385 mm (54.5 inches). These dimensions represent a relatively compact profile for a mid-1970s sedan, making it suitable for urban and suburban driving, while still offering enough exterior space to comfortably accommodate four to five passengers. Its moderate width facilitates easier maneuvering in tight spaces and narrower streets common in European cities during its production years.
The Lancia Beta (828) sedan was designed to seat up to five passengers, typical for sedans of its time. While detailed interior volume measurements are less commonly documented, the compact exterior dimensions translate to a cozy cabin environment ideal for small families or couples. Compared to contemporaries from the mid-1970s to mid-1980s segment, the Beta provided adequate headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, though it focused more on driver comfort and handling rather than spacious rear accommodations. Its interior layout balanced sporty driving dynamics with everyday comfort, distinguishing it among small family sedans.
The curb weight of the Lancia Beta (828) sedan varies depending on the engine and configuration but typically ranges around 1,050 to 1,150 kilograms (approximately 2,315 to 2,535 pounds). This relatively lightweight construction contributed positively to the car's nimble handling characteristics and fuel efficiency. The lighter weight enabled better acceleration and responsiveness from available engines, while ensuring that braking and cornering felt more agile compared to heavier sedans of the time. This balance of modest weight and solid chassis made the Beta a well-regarded vehicle in terms of driving dynamics within its class.
Yes, the Lancia Beta (828) sedan's dimensions make it suitable for standard residential garage spaces commonly found in Europe and North America. With a length of around 4.2 meters (13.8 feet) and a width of approximately 1.67 meters (5.5 feet), it easily fits within typical garage dimensions which often measure about 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width. Its moderate height of approximately 1.39 meters (4.55 feet) also poses no issues for clearance in most garages. Therefore, owners of the Beta would generally not face parking or storage challenges related to vehicle size.
The Lancia Beta (828) is part of the Beta series, but the 828 generation specifically saw minor dimensional changes compared to earlier Beta variants introduced in the early 1970s. While the overall length and width remained largely consistent, the design modifications aimed to improve aerodynamics and interior comfort. The 828 generation typically maintained the compact profile that made the Beta popular in its class. Compared to earlier versions, the 828 updated styling and some chassis tweaks, but its physical footprint remained similar, preserving the Beta’s reputation as a small to mid-size sedan optimized for European roads.
The Lancia Beta (828) sedan had a fuel tank capacity of approximately 50 liters (13.2 US gallons), which was typical for vehicles of its size and era, balancing range with weight considerations. In terms of trunk space, although exact volume figures vary by source, the Beta offered a respectable cargo area for a compact sedan, capable of accommodating daily luggage, groceries, or medium-sized items comfortably. The trunk design prioritized practicality and ease of loading, making it suitable for both everyday commuting and longer trips. This combination reinforced the Beta’s role as a versatile family sedan.
When compared to contemporaries such as the Alfa Romeo Alfetta, BMW 3 Series (E21), and Volvo 240 of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Lancia Beta (828) sits comfortably within the compact to mid-size sedan category. Its length and width are comparable, but the Beta generally offers a more lightweight and agile driving experience due to its lower curb weight. Feature-wise, the Beta emphasized a blend of Italian styling, driver engagement, and engineering innovation, such as front-engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. Although it may lack some of the advanced amenities introduced by German rivals, the Beta remained a competitive choice for those seeking a sporty yet practical sedan.
The wheelbase of the Lancia Beta (828) generally measures around 2,480 mm (97.6 inches). This wheelbase length strikes a balance between maneuverability and ride comfort. A moderately long wheelbase reduces the impact of road irregularities passed to passengers, enhancing ride quality, while also allowing for reasonable legroom inside the cabin. The Beta’s wheelbase was engineered to contribute to its balanced handling characteristics by ensuring stability at higher speeds without compromising nimbleness in urban environments. This dimension helped make the Lancia Beta a practical vehicle for both city driving and longer journeys.
The Lancia Beta (828) has a height of approximately 1,385 mm (54.5 inches) and a ground clearance of about 140 mm (5.5 inches). The lower overall height contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing the car's handling and stability when cornering. Meanwhile, the ground clearance is sufficient for most urban and suburban driving conditions, providing adequate space over minor road obstacles and uneven surfaces without significantly compromising aerodynamic efficiency. These measurements demonstrate the Beta’s focus on a sporty yet comfortable driving experience typical of Italian sedans of the period.
At approximately 1,672 mm (65.8 inches) wide, the Lancia Beta (828) offers a somewhat narrower cabin compared to many modern sedans, which often exceed widths of 1,800 mm (71 inches) or more. This width meant that the Beta could comfortably seat four adults with reasonable shoulder space, though fitting five passengers might be cramped by modern standards. The seating arrangement focused on driver engagement and front passenger comfort, typical of cars from the 1970s and ’80s. Unlike newer sedans with wider cabins and emphasis on rear passenger space and amenities, the Beta’s interior combined a compact footprint with classic European design values emphasizing agility and style.
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