1997 Lancia Delta vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Lancia Delta is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Delta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Delta (102 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Delta should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Delta weights approximately 480 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Delta, 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, 1997 Lancia Delta (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Delta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Delta | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Delta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
