1976 Lancia Beta vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Beta weights approximately 124 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2430 mm |
