1982 Lancia Beta vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 312 kg more than 1982 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
