1976 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 306 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Lancia Beta 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 1976 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
