1989 Lancia Delta vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1989 Lancia Delta 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Lancia Delta. (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1989 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Delta weights approximately 12 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 1989 Lancia Delta, 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 Lancia Delta (172 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1989 Lancia Delta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lancia Delta | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Lancia | Lancia |
| Model | Delta | Beta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1929 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 59 L |
