1975 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1975 Lancia Beta. (119 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Lancia Beta.
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, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Lancia Beta. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Lancia Beta. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1975 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1975 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:
| 1975 Lancia Beta | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
