1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Volvo 264
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 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 264 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 264 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 456 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 264. 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 264 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 264 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 264 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | 264 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
