1983 Lancia Beta vs. 1989 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1989 Lancia Thema is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. Both 1983 Lancia Beta and 1989 Lancia Thema are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Thema weights approximately 171 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema, 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 1989 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Lancia | Lancia |
| Model | Beta | Thema |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
