1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 445 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (177 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 85 L |
