1983 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 985 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 623 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1983 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Beta | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 90 L |
