1980 Lancia Beta vs. 1997 Renault Megane
To start off, 1997 Renault Megane is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Megane (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Megane weights approximately 160 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault Megane, 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, 1997 Renault Megane (196 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 1997 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lancia | Renault |
| Model | Beta | Megane |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2480 mm |
