1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 180 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
