1981 Lancia Beta vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 335 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lancia | Mazda |
Model | Beta | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 228 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |