2003 BMW 318 vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 26 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 220 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.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Lancia Beta, 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, 2003 BMW 318 (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1977 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1977 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 318 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
