2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 421 kg more than 1980 Reliant SE6. 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1980 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
