1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 16 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 337 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (156 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 406 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
