1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 23 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 338 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 535 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 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Lancia | Panoz |
| Model | Beta | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
