1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 452 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.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
