1978 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 214 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.
Because 1978 Lancia Beta 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 1978 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
