1972 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1972 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 266 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Lancia Beta. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Lancia Beta | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
