2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Beta. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 119 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Beta. 1981 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Mazda | Lancia |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Beta |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 71.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1036 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |