2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 442 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 1978 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
