1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2001 Volvo V70
To start off, 2001 Volvo V70 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo V70 (139 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo V70 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70, 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, 2001 Volvo V70 (220 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2001 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2001 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
