2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 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 333 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 525 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.

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, 1981 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 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1981 Lancia Beta
Make BMW Lancia
Model M3 Beta
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 414 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2360 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 49 L


 

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