1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 29 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 52 L |
