1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 8 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | Xsara | Beta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2360 mm |
