2005 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 572 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 M3 (330 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |
