1976 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1976 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 224 kg more than 1976 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lancia Beta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lancia Beta | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
