1983 Lancia Beta vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 19 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 294 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, 2002 Saturn L, 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, 2002 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Lancia | Saturn |
| Model | Beta | L |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94.6 mm |
| 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 | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
