1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 is newer by 21 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (318 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 309 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 2001 Porsche 996 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 2001 Porsche 996. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Lancia | Porsche |
| Model | Beta | 996 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2360 mm |
