1982 Lancia Beta vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1982 Lancia Beta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lancia Beta (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1982 Lancia Beta.
Because 1978 Mazda 121 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1982 Lancia Beta (175 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 121 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
