1982 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 351 kg more than 1982 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Beta | V50 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |
