1978 Lancia Beta vs. 1961 Mazda R 360
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1961 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Beta weights approximately 658 kg more than 1961 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mazda R 360 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 1961 Mazda R 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 1961 Mazda R 360 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | R 360 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 22 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 60 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 63 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 2990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
