2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 57 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Because 1976 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 1976 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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, 1976 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | C3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1097 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
