1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 823 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | SL |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
