1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1985 Volvo 245
To start off, 1985 Volvo 245 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 245. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 245.
Because 1985 Volvo 245 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 1985 Volvo 245. 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1985 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 245 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
