1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2009 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 28 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), 2009 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (143 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 259 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2009 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Lancia | Suzuki |
| Model | Beta | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
