1989 Lancia Delta vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1989 Lancia Delta. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 759 kg more than 1989 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Lancia Delta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Delta 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lancia Delta. (298 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lancia Delta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Lancia Delta has manual transmission. 1989 Lancia Delta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Lancia Delta 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Delta SL
Year Released 1989 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 5987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 200 HP 389 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 570 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 89.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 80.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1291 kg 2050 kg
Vehicle Length 3900 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 80 L