2001 BMW 745 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta

To start off, 2001 BMW 745 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 745 (325 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 745 weights approximately 985 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 745 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 2001 BMW 745. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta, 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, 2001 BMW 745 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2001 BMW 745 has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 745 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 745 1978 Lancia Beta
Make BMW Lancia
Model 745 Beta
Year Released 2001 1978
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 325 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 70.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 78.8 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1985 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 5140 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2360 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 49 L