1972 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1972 Lancia Beta.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Lancia Beta, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Lancia Beta. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Lancia Beta | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | 240 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
