2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 411 kg more than 1973 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 51 L |
