1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 81 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Volvo 120 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Because 1969 Volvo 120 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 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta, 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, 1969 Volvo 120 (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1969 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |
