1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1144 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 696 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 90 L |
