1980 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 695 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | E |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
