1986 Mazda 626 vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1986 Mazda 626 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 183 kg more than 1986 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Reliant Scimitar 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 Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 626, 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 Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626. 1978 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1986 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1986 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 626 | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 626 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
