1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 202 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
