1984 Lancia Beta vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Beta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 202 kg more than 1984 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Beta. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Beta | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Beta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
