1974 Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) has a curb weight ranging between 1070 kg and 1145 kg (approximately 2,359 to 2,524 pounds). This weight varies depending on specific trim levels and equipment. The maximum weight, including passengers and cargo, is 1415 kg (about 3,121 pounds). These weight figures demonstrate the Beta’s balance of lightness and structural rigidity, which improves performance and handling characteristics typical of sporty coupes of its era.

This model is equipped with 14-inch rims sized 5.5J x 14, which are relatively standard for compact coupes of the 1970s. The tires fitted to these rims are sized 185/65 R14, offering a good balance between grip, comfort, and handling. These tire dimensions contribute to the car’s responsive road manners and help maintain ride comfort despite the sporty setup. The combination is well-suited for the car’s lightweight frame and purpose-driven engineering.

With a width of 1650 mm (65 inches), the Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) holds a fairly narrow profile compared to modern standards. This narrower width allows for easier maneuvering through tight urban streets and parking spaces. From a handling perspective, the slender width helps with agility and cornering performance, key attributes for a sporty coupe. Drivers benefit from a nimble feel on twisty roads without sacrificing stability.

The Beta Coupe’s height of 1285 mm (50.6 inches) makes it relatively low-profile, emphasizing its sporty coupe nature. While this means the car offers limited vertical space compared to sedans or SUVs, headroom inside remains adequate for average-height occupants, especially given the car’s intended two-door coupe design. The lowered roofline supports aerodynamic efficiency, though taller passengers might find headroom slightly restrictive compared to modern cars with taller cabins.

A standard residential garage usually accommodates vehicles up to approximately 2.4 meters (around 8 feet) in width and 5 meters (about 16.4 feet) in length. The Lancia Beta Coupe, being 3995 mm (3.995 meters) or about 13.1 feet long and 1650 mm (1.65 meters) or approximately 5.4 feet wide, fits comfortably within typical garage dimensions. Its low height of 1285 mm further ensures there are no clearance issues with garage doors or overhead fixtures, making it suitable for parking in most standard home garages.

The Beta Coupe (BC), produced from 1976 to 1984, follows the original Beta series introduced in the early 1970s. Compared to its predecessor, the Beta Coupe (BC) maintains a similar compact footprint but features subtle refinements in dimensions for improved styling and handling. While exact predecessor dimensions vary slightly depending on model variations, the BC generation often presented a slightly longer and lower profile, enhancing aerodynamics and sportiness. Weight-wise, improvements in materials and design efficiency helped to keep the curb weight competitive despite the added features and safety upgrades.

When compared to similar 1970s compact sporty coupes, such as the Alfa Romeo GTV or Fiat 124 Sport Coupe, the Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) falls comfortably within the typical range. Its length of just under 4 meters and moderate width make it one of the more compact options, which can translate into better maneuverability and lighter weight. While some rivals may be slightly longer or wider, the Beta's proportions emphasize balance and agility, suited for spirited driving. Its lightweight construction and moderate size make it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a nimble yet stylish coupe.

The Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) is renowned for blending Italian design elegance with engineering focused on driver engagement. Produced between 1976 and 1984, it features a lightweight body (curb weight between 1070 to 1145 kg), compact dimensions, and sporty handling. It was equipped with front-wheel drive, a relatively advanced feature at the time for coupes, enhancing interior space efficiency and traction. The Beta Coupe combined stylish lines, a low stance (height of 1285 mm), and practical two-door layout, offering drivers a mix of performance, comfort, and distinctive Italian flair. Its suspension setup and steering were tuned for responsiveness, making it ideal for enthusiastic driving on winding roads.

Being a compact two-door coupe, the Lancia Beta Coupe (BC) prioritizes style and driver engagement over extensive cabin or cargo space. Its modest width (1650 mm) and low height (1285 mm) result in a snug interior with limited rear seat capacity, best suited for occasional passengers or smaller adults. The front seats offer reasonable comfort and decent headroom despite the car’s low roofline. For cargo, the coupe's trunk space is modest, typical for the class and era, suitable for everyday needs but not generous. Overall, the car balances compact sporty proportions with functional interior space within the expectations of a 1970s coupe.