1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 476 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1993 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | E |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
