2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 719 kg more than 1980 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta. 1980 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | SL | Beta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 59 L |
