1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S40. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S40.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (241 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
