2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 536 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | E | Beta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
