1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1180 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 692 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 88 L |
