2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (136 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1979 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1979 Reliant Scimitar 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 Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
