2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 262 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 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Explorer | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 59 L |
