1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 23 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 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 304 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.
Because 2002 Lotus Esprit 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 81 mm |
| 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 | 1036 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2430 mm |
