1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2011 Jaguar XJ

To start off, 2011 Jaguar XJ is newer by 31 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Jaguar XJ (385 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 838 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 2011 Jaguar XJ 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 2011 Jaguar XJ. 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, 2011 Jaguar XJ (515 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta. 2011 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1980 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1980 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Lancia Beta 2011 Jaguar XJ
Make Lancia Jaguar
Model Beta XJ
Year Released 1980 2011
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1585 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 101 HP 385 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 134 Nm 515 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1036 kg 1874 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 5248 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1895 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1448 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 3157 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 59 L 82 L