1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lancia Beta | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Lancia | Lotus |
Model | Beta | Elise |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 82 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 112 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 89.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |