1983 Lancia Beta vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 16 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. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 243 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 1999 Lotus Esprit 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (206 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Beta | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 286 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 72 L |
