1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 38 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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 (171 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1979 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lancia Beta | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lancia | Mazda |
Model | Beta | 323 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1078 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2510 mm |