2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 23 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, 2003 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 335 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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, 2003 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant SE6. 2003 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Taurus | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Taurus | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
