2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 470 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.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
| Model | Spider | Beta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
