1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 818 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2320 mm |
