2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 573 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 1979 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 1979 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (171 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
