1998 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 24 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3, 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, 1974 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm). This means 1974 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Audi | Lancia |
| Model | A3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
