1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 164 kg more than 1979 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 1986 Lancia Thema has automatic transmission and 1979 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1979 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lancia Thema will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Lancia | Lancia |
| Model | Beta | Thema |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73 mm |
| 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 | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2670 mm |
