1984 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1984 Lancia Beta.
Because 1984 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 1984 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1984 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Beta | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
