1954 Buick 40 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Buick 40 (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Buick 40 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 1954 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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. Let's talk about torque, 1954 Buick 40 (309 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
1954 Buick 40 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Buick | Lancia |
Model | 40 | Beta |
Year Released | 1954 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4328 cc | 1367 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 309 Nm | 112 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2360 mm |