1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1979 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (171 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1979 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1979 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | ML |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 83 L |
