1980 Lancia Delta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Delta. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 980 kg more than 1980 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Delta, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Delta. (136 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Delta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Lancia Delta has manual transmission. 1980 Lancia Delta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Delta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Delta | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
