1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1984 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1984 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Beta. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1984 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | Z3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1366 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
