2009 BMW M5 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2009 BMW M5 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M5 weights approximately 919 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 M5 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 M5. 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 M5 (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M5 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M5 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
