2009 BMW M3 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 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 295 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (119 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1975 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, 1975 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 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
