1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 31 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 345 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | GTI |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
