1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa 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 308 more horse power than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (202 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 630 kg more than 1998 Lancia Kappa. 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, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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 532 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lancia Kappa. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1998 Lancia Kappa 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:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3170 mm |
