2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 620 kg more than 1976 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2360 mm |
