1970 Austin 1800 vs. 1976 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1976 Reliant SE6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1970 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1970 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1970 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Reliant SE6 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 1976 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Austin 1800, 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, 1976 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin 1800 | 1976 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | 1800 | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
