2001 Mazda 6 vs. 1979 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 6 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1979 Reliant SE6.
Because 1979 Reliant SE6 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 1979 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 6, 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, 2001 Mazda 6 (311 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 6 | 1979 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 6 | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
