2009 BMW 550 vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,495 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Lancia Beta, 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 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | 550 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
