1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 28 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 89 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lancia | Mazda |
Model | Beta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 64 L |