1981 Reliant SE6 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 32 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1981 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Reliant SE6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Reliant SE6 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Reliant | BMW |
| Model | SE6 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
