1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 31 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 291 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.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Lancia | Pontiac |
| Model | Beta | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 49 L |
