1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (145 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
| Model | 156 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |
