2009 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1973 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 427 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1973 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1756 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
