1977 Lancia Beta vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 300 kg more than 1977 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1977 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1977 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | SLK |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
