2008 BMW 523 vs. 1983 Lancia Beta

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Lancia Beta, 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 523 1983 Lancia Beta
Make BMW Lancia
Model 523 Beta
Year Released 2008 1983
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 135 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 207 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 90 mm
Top Speed 230 km/hour 200 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 51 L