1998 Ford Focus vs. 1982 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 196 kg more than 1982 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1982 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Focus | Beta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
