2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 692 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (323 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lancia |
| Model | 159 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.5 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
