1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
