1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1977 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zeta | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2870 mm |
