1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 749 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
