1974 Lancia Beta vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 1976 Volvo 260 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 260 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Volvo 260 (218 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1976 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 260 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
