1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 223 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Because 1977 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 1977 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
