1974 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 35 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 430 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, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | B |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
