1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 535 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1975 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1975 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lancia | Kia |
| Model | Beta | Optima |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
