1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 204 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
