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Lancia - Beta (1981)
Step back into the early 1980s and uncover the unmistakable silhouette of the Lancia Beta. This compact icon, first introduced in 1980, rapidly became a favourite among Italian motorists for its blend of style, practicality, and that classic Lancia driving feel. If you’re curious about the Lancia Beta price today, or you’re wondering what is a 1981 Lancia Beta worth, you’ve come to the right place.
- Model year: 1981 (prototype and early production run) – A landmark year that saw the first factory‑produced Beta hit roads in Italy.
- Engine: 2.0‑L V4 (some variants later upgraded to 2.1‑L) producing around 90 hp, a unique in-line V4 that set the car apart.
- Transmission: 4‑speed manual gearbox (some export models received a 5‑speed option).
- Fuel type: Petrol (51 octane in early 1981 models).
- Dimensions: Length : 3,960 mm • Width : 1,600 mm • Height : 1,460 mm.
- Wheelbase: 2,530 mm – a well‑balanced length that gives the Beta both agility and comfort.
- Weight: Approx. 1,080 kg (depending on trim and equipment).
- Interior: Original trim featuring a forward‑tilting steering wheel, leather upholstery on higher trims, and a classic swirling dash design.
- Notable features: Lower–wind noise design, a non‑linked suspension for a firmer ride, and a distinctive halogen front lamp arrangement.
Peak buying rush in the early 80s meant Lancia pushed the Beta into a very competitive segment. Its Lancia Beta price at launch in 1981 varied roughly between €12,000 and €16,000, depending on the market and optional equipment.
Depreciation Insight – The Lancia Beta Depreciation Curve
Like most production vehicles, the Beta didn’t hold its value forever, but it performed better than many of its contemporaries. Automotive analysts estimate that a freshly purchased Lancia Beta typically loses between 15–20% of its value in the first year. That means a 1981 model bought at €14,000 would depreciate to roughly €11,600–€11,900 after 12 months.
From the second year onward, depreciation slows but continues steadily. On average, a Beta loses about 10–12% of its value each subsequent year for the next three five‑year periods. In terms of long‑term appreciation, more recent lidar‑fit and well‑maintained, low‑km exemplars have started to surge in resale value, especially the rarer 1981 variants with the original V4 engine and quality metal pintails.
Collectively, throughout its life cycle, the Lancia Beta typically loses around 40–50% of its launch price. Nonetheless, the car's enduring design and novelty often keep it from falling too quickly into the “common game” zone, making used Lancia Beta price remain relatively higher than more generic counterparts.
What Is a 1981 Lancia Beta Worth? The Market Perspective
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