1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 1996 Saturn SC is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SC (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SC weights approximately 45 kg more than 1981 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, 1996 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 1996 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1996 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Lancia | Saturn |
| Model | Beta | SC |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2610 mm |
