1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. Both 1988 Lancia Thema and 1981 Lancia Beta are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 262 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (225 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Lancia Thema | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Lancia | Lancia |
Model | Thema | Beta |
Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1048 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2360 mm |