1973 Lancia Beta vs. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 24 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, both vehicles can yield 129 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2270 mm |
