1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1966 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 1973 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volvo P 1800 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volvo P 1800 should accelerate faster than 1973 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volvo P 1800 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volvo P 1800 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 1966 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta, 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, 1966 Volvo P 1800 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1966 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |
