2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 573 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lancia Beta 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
