1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 717 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
