2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 347 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
