1989 BMW 850 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1989 BMW 850 is newer by 8 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. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta, 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. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 850 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 0 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
