1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 21 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 433 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 850 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
