1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra 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, 1978 Reliant SE6 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra. 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 Opel Astra, 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Reliant | Opel |
| Model | SE6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
