1983 Lancia Beta vs. 1994 Mazda 323
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. Both 1983 Lancia Beta and 1994 Mazda 323 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 Lancia Beta. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 174 kg more than 1983 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323, 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, 1994 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 1994 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 323 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
