1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 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 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1979 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lancia Beta | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lancia | Mazda |
Model | Beta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 61 L |