2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 kg more than 1975 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | S | Beta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
