1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2005 Peugeot 406 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 306 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Peugeot 406 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2005 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 406 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
