2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (122 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 833 kg more than 1982 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1982 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1982 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 51 L |
