1980 Reliant SE6 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm

To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 158 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Reliant SE6 1999 Chevrolet Prizm
Make Reliant Chevrolet
Model SE6 Prizm
Year Released 1980 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2994 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 133 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 233 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 1092 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2470 mm