Lancia Beta Coupe 1600 (1973-84)

The Lancia Beta Coupe 1600, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners and enthusiasts often encounter:

1. **Rust**: This is perhaps the most notorious issue with the Lancia Beta series. Rust can affect the body panels, floor pans, and structural components. It's crucial to inspect for rust thoroughly, especially in the underbody and wheel arches.

2. **Electrical Problems**: The electrical system can be prone to faults, including issues with the wiring, alternator, and starter motor. These problems can lead to unreliable starting and other electrical gremlins.

3. **Cooling System**: The cooling system can suffer from clogged or leaking radiators, weeping water pumps, and head gasket leaks. Regular maintenance and checks are essential to prevent overheating.

4. **Fuel System**: Issues with the carburettor, such as blockages or incorrect settings, can lead to poor running and stalling. The fuel return line should also be checked for blockages.

5. **Suspension and Steering**: The suspension components, including the MacPherson struts, can wear out, leading to poor handling and ride quality. The steering can also suffer from issues like heavy steering and torque steer.

6. **Engine**: The engine, while generally robust, can suffer from oil leaks, excessive breathing, and internal wear. Regular oil changes and maintenance are crucial to keep the engine running smoothly.

These are some of the common faults to be aware of if you're considering owning or maintaining a Lancia Beta Coupe 1600. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections can help mitigate many of these issues.
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Generations
The Lancia Beta Coupe had a single generation, produced from 1973 to 1984 - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/lancia/beta-coupe/). During its production run, it underwent various updates and improvements, but it remained within the same generation.
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Trim Levels
The Lancia Beta Coupe 1600 was available in several trim levels throughout its production years. Here are some of the notable ones:

1. **Base Model**: This was the standard trim level, offering essential features and the classic Lancia driving experience.
2. **LX**: A more luxurious version with additional comfort features such as upgraded interior materials and enhanced sound insulation.
3. **HPE (High Performance Estate)**: Although primarily a different body style, the HPE shared many components with the Coupe and offered a sportier driving experience.
4. **VX (Volumex)**: Introduced later in the production run, this trim featured a supercharged engine for improved performance, along with distinctive styling elements like an offset bonnet bulge and spoilers.

These trim levels provided a range of options for buyers, from basic to more luxurious and performance-oriented versions.
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Engines
The Lancia Beta Coupe was offered with a variety of engines throughout its production run from 1973 to 1984. Here are the main engine options:

1. **1.3 L I4 (1297 cc)**: Introduced in 1974, producing around 82 horsepower.
2. **1.4 L I4 (1367 cc)**: Producing around 84 horsepower.
3. **1.6 L I4 (1585 cc)**: Producing around 100 horsepower.
4. **1.8 L I4 (1756 cc)**: Producing around 120 horsepower.
5. **2.0 L I4 (1995 cc)**: Producing around 122 horsepower.
6. **2.0 L supercharged I4 (1995 cc)**: Known as the Volumex (VX), producing around 135 horsepower.

These engines provided a range of performance options, catering to different preferences and driving styles.
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Performance
Here's a breakdown of the performance you can expect from each variant of the Lancia Beta Coupe:

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1300
- **Engine**: 1.3 L I4
- **Power**: Around 82 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 105 mph (169 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 12.5 seconds

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1600
- **Engine**: 1.6 L I4
- **Power**: Around 100 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 113 mph (182 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 10.4 seconds

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1800
- **Engine**: 1.8 L I4
- **Power**: Around 120 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 118 mph (190 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 9.5 seconds

### Lancia Beta Coupe 2000
- **Engine**: 2.0 L I4
- **Power**: Around 122 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 120 mph (193 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 9.0 seconds

### Lancia Beta Coupe Volumex (VX)
- **Engine**: 2.0 L supercharged I4
- **Power**: Around 135 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 125 mph (201 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 8.5 seconds

These figures provide a general idea of the performance capabilities of each variant. The actual performance can vary based on the condition of the car and any modifications made.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for your Lancia Beta Coupe (1973-84) at several places in the UK and Ireland. Here are a few options:

1. **[EU-SPARES](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/lancia/beta/beta-coupe-828bc)**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Lancia Beta Coupe, including engine components, brake parts, and more.
2. **[Ricambio](https://www.ricambio.co.uk/74-lancia/lancia-beta)**: Specializes in Italian car parts and has a good selection of Lancia Beta parts.
3. **[Car-parts.ie](https://www.car-parts.ie/car-brands/lancia/beta-coupe-828bc-parts)**: An online shop that provides various spare parts for the Lancia Beta Coupe.
4. **[APD](https://www.apd.co.uk/car/lancia/beta-coupe-828-1974-1984)**: Offers genuine replacement parts for the Lancia Beta Coupe, available both online and in-store.

These suppliers should have what you need to keep your classic car running smoothly.
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Specialists
Here are a few places in Northern Ireland where you can have your Lancia Beta Coupe (1973-84) maintained:

1. **[Kwik Fit](https://www.kwik-fit.com/servicing/information/vehicles/lancia/beta)**: They offer a range of service packages for the Lancia Beta, including interim and full services, as well as MOT testing.
2. **[Lancia Beta Services](https://lanciabetaservices.co.uk/)**: Although based in Devon, they have extensive experience with Lancia Beta models and might be able to offer advice or parts that can be shipped to Northern Ireland.

It's always a good idea to contact these services directly to confirm they can meet your specific needs.
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Racing
The Lancia Beta Coupe did compete in racing, particularly in rallying. The Beta Coupe was used in Group 4 rally competitions, supporting the more famous Lancia Stratos. It helped Lancia secure World Championships in 1974 and 1975. The Beta Coupe was also modified for Group 3 specifications, showcasing its versatility and performance in motorsport.

The Lancia Beta Coupe had several famous drivers during its racing career. Notable drivers included:

- **Markku Alén**: A Finnish rally driver who had significant success with Lancia.
- **Sandro Munari**: An Italian rally driver known for his achievements with Lancia.
- **Björn Waldegård**: A Swedish rally driver who also drove for Lancia.
- **Henri Toivonen**: A Finnish rally driver who had a promising career with Lancia before his untimely death.

These drivers contributed to Lancia's success in rallying and helped establish the brand's reputation in motorsport.
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Values
The value of Lancia Beta Coupe variants can vary based on their condition and specific model. Here's a general idea of the current market values:

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1300
- **Fair Condition**: Around £2,000
- **Good Condition**: Between £4,000 and £6,000
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £10,000

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1600
- **Fair Condition**: Around £2,500
- **Good Condition**: Between £5,000 and £7,500
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £12,000

### Lancia Beta Coupe 1800
- **Fair Condition**: Around £3,000
- **Good Condition**: Between £6,000 and £8,000
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £14,000

### Lancia Beta Coupe 2000
- **Fair Condition**: Around £3,500
- **Good Condition**: Between £7,000 and £9,000
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £15,000

### Lancia Beta Coupe Volumex (VX)
- **Fair Condition**: Around £4,000
- **Good Condition**: Between £8,000 and £12,000
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £18,000

These values can fluctuate based on the market and specific details of the car. If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's always a good idea to check current listings and consult with classic car experts.
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