1996 Lancia Zeta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lancia Zeta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lancia Zeta would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1996 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 215 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Zeta, 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lancia Zeta. (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lancia Zeta. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Lancia Zeta has manual transmission. 1996 Lancia Zeta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Zeta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zeta | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
