1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 1975 Lancia Beta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 244 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. 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, 1974 Volvo 244 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 244 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 244 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
