1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1350 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 | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
