1985 Lancia Delta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Delta. (140 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 808 kg more than 1985 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Delta. (191 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Delta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1985 Lancia Delta has manual transmission. 1985 Lancia Delta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Delta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Delta | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2890 mm |
