1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2011 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2011 Peugeot 408 is newer by 32 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2011 Peugeot 408. (110 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2011 Peugeot 408.
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, 2011 Peugeot 408, 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, 1979 Lancia Beta (171 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Peugeot 408. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Peugeot 408. 2011 Peugeot 408 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. 2011 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2011 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 408 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
