1981 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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, 1979 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 1979 Reliant SE6 | |
Make | Ford | Reliant |
Model | Escort | SE6 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 121 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 | 954 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |