2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 532 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 1978 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 59 L |
