1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1288 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 90 L |
