2002 Audi S3 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 24 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 385 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 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 1978 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Audi | Lancia |
| Model | S3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
