1978 Lancia Beta vs. 1997 Mazda MPV
To start off, 1997 Mazda MPV is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 654 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1997 Mazda MPV (228 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 1997 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | MPV |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2850 mm |
