1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 375 kg more than 1977 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1977 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1977 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
