2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 369 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
