1989 Ford Probe vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 6 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 271 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, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Probe | Beta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
