2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen Xsara (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 278 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | Xsara | Beta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
