1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 805 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | E |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 425 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
