1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 835 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 592 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | E |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
