2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 411 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 49 L |
