1955 Citroen 2CV vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 553 kg more than 1955 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lancia Beta 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Citroen 2CV | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | 2CV | Beta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 424 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 59 L |
