2004 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 318 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |
