1998 BMW 317 vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 Reliant SE6.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 317 | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
