1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 20 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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (230 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 390 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.
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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (351 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lancia | Saab |
| Model | Beta | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 64 L |
