1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 250 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 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Beta | SLK |
Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 82 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |