1977 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1977 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1977 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Lancia Beta | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| 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 | 134 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 185 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 | 1266 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 | 6.9 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
