1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
