1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 280 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, 1999 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | Xsara | Beta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
