1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 19 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, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta.
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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1980 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
| Model | 146 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 59 L |
