1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 250 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1302 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 1971 Volkswagen 1302. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Lancia Beta (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1971 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
