1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2004 Mercury Sable is newer by 24 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Sable (200 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Sable weights approximately 444 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, 2004 Mercury Sable, 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, 2004 Mercury Sable (271 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2004 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercury |
| Model | Beta | Sable |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 68 L |
