2005 BMW 320 vs. 1979 Lancia Beta

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2005 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1979 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1979 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 1979 Lancia Beta
Make BMW Lancia
Model 320 Beta
Year Released 2005 1979
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 70.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 78.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1425 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 60 L 49 L