1976 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 949 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 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, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1976 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1976 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:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 88 L |
