1982 Lancia Beta vs. 1959 Steyr 500D

To start off, 1982 Lancia Beta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Steyr 500D. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Steyr 500D would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lancia Beta (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1959 Steyr 500D. (19 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1959 Steyr 500D. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lancia Beta weights approximately 560 kg more than 1959 Steyr 500D. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Steyr 500D 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 1959 Steyr 500D. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1982 Lancia Beta (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Steyr 500D. (32 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1982 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Steyr 500D.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Lancia Beta 1959 Steyr 500D
Make Lancia Steyr
Model Beta 500D
Year Released 1982 1959
Engine Size 1995 cc 488 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 122 HP 19 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 32 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1040 kg 480 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 2970 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1330 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 1850 mm