2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 458 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 59 L |
