1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 87 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus, 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, 1978 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1978 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1978 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Reliant | Ford |
| Model | SE6 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1337 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2649 mm |
