2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 585 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1976 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1976 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1976 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Taurus | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2360 mm |
