1982 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 775 kg more than 1982 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 CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1982 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1982 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Lancia Beta 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Beta CLS
Year Released 1982 2009
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 122 HP 221 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 510 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 1600 RPM
Top Speed 187 km/hour 246 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1040 kg 1815 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 80 L