1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 13 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 881 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan, 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 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Dodge | Lancia |
| Model | Caravan | Beta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2310 mm |
