1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 505 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | 2CV | Beta |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 374 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 45 L |
