1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1060 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 692 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1975 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1975 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3090 mm |
