1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2013 Mazda 6
To start off, 2013 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 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, 2013 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 6 weights approximately 249 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, 2013 Mazda 6, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 6. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2013 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Reliant | Mazda |
| Model | SE6 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2790 mm |
