1972 Lancia Beta vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1972 Lancia Beta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,755 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Lancia Beta (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Lancia Beta weights approximately 180 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Lancia Beta (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Lancia Beta | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 40 L |
