1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 475 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | C |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
