1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 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 2,606 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1119 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lancia Beta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 83 L |
