2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 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 153 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 564 kg more than 1979 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 (224 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 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 | 75 L | 59 L |
