1981 Reliant SE6 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 248 kg more than 1981 Reliant SE6.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1981 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1981 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1981 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Reliant SE6 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Reliant | Hyundai |
| Model | SE6 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
