1982 Lancia Beta vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lancia Beta weights approximately 28 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Elan |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
