2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 28 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 30 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C3. (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C3. (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C3. 2004 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1976 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Citroen | Lancia |
| Model | C3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 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 | 6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
