1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Beta (118 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Lancia Beta 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 1976 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1976 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 480 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
