1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1112 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.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 95 L |
