1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1976 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 285 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 323, 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, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1976 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1976 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 323 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
