1948 Jensen Straight 8 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 (130 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jensen Straight 8 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 1948 Jensen Straight 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Jensen | Lancia |
| Model | Straight 8 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3860 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L | 49 L |
