1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 240 (104 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Because 1978 Volvo 240 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 Volvo 240. 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, 1978 Volvo 240 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 240 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2650 mm |
