1983 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 20 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 276 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, 2003 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Lancia | Saturn |
| Model | Beta | L |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 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 | 1320 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 | 59 L |
