2004 BMW 320 vs. 1977 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 27 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 540 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 2004 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2004 BMW 320 (334 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1977 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 320 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
