1968 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,175 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1968 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1968 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 232 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 1968 Citroen DS, 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:
| 1968 Citroen DS | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | DS | Beta |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2175 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
