2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 379 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | SLK | Beta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
