1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 752 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
