1974 Lancia Beta vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lancia Beta weights approximately 170 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lancia Beta 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 1974 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1974 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm). This means 1974 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lancia Beta | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
