1986 Citroen CX vs. 1976 Lancia Beta

To start off, 1986 Citroen CX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen CX (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen CX weights approximately 380 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Citroen CX, 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, 1986 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Citroen CX 1976 Lancia Beta
Make Citroen Lancia
Model CX Beta
Year Released 1986 1976
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2500 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 206 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.7:1 8.9:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1420 kg 1040 kg
Vehicle Length 4910 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 59 L