1972 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 105 kg more than 1972 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Lancia Beta. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Lancia Beta. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1972 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1972 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Lancia Beta | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2512 mm |
