2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 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), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Audi | Lancia |
| Model | A3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
