2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 519 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | C | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
