1973 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1973 Lancia Beta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1973 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 306 kg more than 1973 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Lancia Beta. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Lancia Beta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1973 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1973 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | C |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1404 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
