1974 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 395 kg more than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Because 1974 Lancia Beta 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 B (250 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | B |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
