1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 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 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 6, 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 6 (221 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 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 6 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 68 L |
