1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 538 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 2013 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lancia | Kia |
| Model | Beta | Optima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
