2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 360 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.
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 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Dodge | Lancia |
| Model | Caliber | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
