2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1983 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1983 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 750 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 1983 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1983 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1983 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Caterham | Reliant |
| Model | 7 | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2650 mm |
