2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 295 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 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | Z4 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
