1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 372 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 (240 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
