1991 BMW M12 vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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. Let's talk about torque, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (109 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M12 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2360 mm |
