1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 540 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 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 2.8 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2360 mm |
