1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2007 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2007 Peugeot 407 is newer by 26 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Peugeot 407 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Peugeot 407 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 367 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, 2007 Peugeot 407, 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, 2007 Peugeot 407 (290 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2007 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2007 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Lancia | Peugeot |
| Model | Beta | 407 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 66 L |
