1982 Lancia Beta vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1982 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Beta. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1982 Lancia Beta has manual transmission. 1982 Lancia Beta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 323 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
