1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (101 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Beta weights approximately 51 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1980 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Mazda | Lancia |
| Model | 323 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
