1981 Lancia Delta 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 Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 5,980 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 529 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Delta. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Delta.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (1,000 Nm @ 200 RPM) has 895 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Delta. (105 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Delta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Lancia Delta has manual transmission. 1981 Lancia Delta 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 Delta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Delta | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1301 cc | 5980 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3170 mm |
