2008 Ford E-350 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Ford E-350 is newer by 30 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford E-350 weights approximately 69 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, 2008 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2008 Ford E-350 has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford E-350 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | E-350 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 59 L |
