1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 140 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
