1956 Lancia Appia vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Lancia Appia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Lancia Appia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 43 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Lancia Appia weights approximately 40 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1956 Lancia Appia 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 1956 Lancia Appia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1975 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Lancia Appia. (78 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Lancia Appia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Lancia Appia | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Appia | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1090 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 78 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
