2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 465 kg more than 1978 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 (281 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Taurus | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 59 L |
