1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 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), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 339 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.
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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
