1974 Lancia Beta vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 110 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Lancia | Lancia |
| Model | Beta | Thema |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
