1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 219 kg more than 1975 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
