1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 298 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 1979 Lancia Beta 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 1979 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (171 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Lancia | Saturn |
| Model | Beta | L |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
