1983 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 29 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 539 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, 2012 Kia Optima, 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lancia | Kia |
| Model | Beta | Optima |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
