1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 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 1,306 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 425 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 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lancia Beta | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lancia | Mazda |
Model | Beta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1425 kg |
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 |