1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 27 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 64 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (165 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (130 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
