Would prime Karpov have beaten Kasparov?

Smyslov and Korchnoi were pretty formidable on into their 60's.

Their match was even for a very long time AFAIK.

As was Lasker, but I think they were rather exceptional. Most top players don't really have the energy and motivation when they reach that age.

AFAIK ?????????

What I mean is that a player reaches his peak at about 25, and keeps there for about 10 years, so Karpov was in his best form during his matches vs Kasparov, yet he lost them, except two (1984 and 1987)

Karpov first reached his peak around 1977 at age 26, and then stayed at around the same level until 1997, so that would be a good 20 years.  Karpov's highest rating ever was in July 1994.

Korchnoi hit his peak around 1979 at age 48.

Steinitz's peaks were at age 40 and 50.

I think being in good form is probably related to the amount of effort a player puts into practice, preparation and training at any point in their life.

Yes, Karpov best performance was Linares 1994 I think, years after he had lost chess throne

Karpov was FIDE world champion in 1994.  He lost his throne in 1999 I believe.

Both great players but Kasparov stronger player because younger and more active/dynamic player using modern tools. You cant split them though, they were the best players of their time. Karpov much more solid player with most tournament wins of all time in chess history. 

Fischer was not afraid of Karpov! And it's extremely unlikely that Karpov would have even WON against Fischer - let alone humiliate him. Fisher just happened to be a whacko, that's all. He and Magnus are the only 2 whackos that have ever walked away from the world title. But neither of them ever feared anyone in their prime.

Yes, Karpov would have beaten the other K. Fischer was afraid of him or he'd have played him.