1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lancia Beta 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 1980 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
