1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1969 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1976 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Beta (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1969 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1969 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 26 kg more than 1969 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volkswagen 1600 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 1969 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1976 Lancia Beta (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1969 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |
