1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 27 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1274 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 497 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Lancia Beta 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Beta ML
Year Released 1981 2008
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1585 cc 6208 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 503 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 134 Nm 631 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 102.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71.5 mm 94.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 174 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1036 kg 2310 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1850 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2920 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.9 L/100km 13.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 59 L 95 L