1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 240 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 91 L |
