1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1976 Volvo 343
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 10 kg more than 1976 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Volvo 343 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 1976 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, both vehicles can yield 108 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1976 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1976 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 343 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
