1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1957 Volvo 120
To start off, 1975 Lancia Beta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 5 kg more than 1957 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Volvo 120 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 1957 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1957 Volvo 120 (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1957 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1957 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2610 mm |
