1973 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 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 1,756 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1973 Lancia Beta (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1973 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1973 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
