Lancia Beta Montecarlo

vs

Porsche 930 Turbo

Italy vs Germany — 1975 vs 1981

Lancia Beta Montecarlo (1975)
Porsche 930 Turbo (1981)
Specifications
Beta Montecarlo Turbo930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose
Horsepower190 hp330 hp
Torque203 lb-ft318 lb-ft
Engine Size1,995 cc3,299 cc
0-60 mph7.2 sec4.6 sec
Top Speed137 mph168 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec12.8 sec
Weight2,315 lbs2,943 lbs
Wheelbase2,300 mm2,272 mm
Length4,050 mm4,291 mm
Units Produced7,595948
Original MSRP$85,000
Value (Excellent)$100,000$650,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity7/108/10
The Verdict

The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1975 Lancia Beta Montecarlo Turbo counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When Italy engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1975 Lancia Beta Montecarlo Turbo and 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 190 hp, a 140-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Beta Montecarlo uses a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged displacing 1,995 cc, while the Porsche 930 Turbo relies on a Flat-6 SOHC Turbocharged 12V with 3,299 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Lancia Beta Montecarlo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 628 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 948 units built, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose is considerably scarcer than the Lancia Beta Montecarlo's 7,595 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose commands a significant premium over the 1975 Lancia Beta Montecarlo Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.