1983 Lancia Beta vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 203 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beta | T5 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
