1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 173 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lancia |
| Model | Elantra | Beta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2360 mm |
