1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (191 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
