1975 Lancia Beta vs. 1976 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1976 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-2 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 1976 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1976 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 1976 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2480 mm |
