1977 Lancia Beta vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
