2003 Proton 400 vs. 1984 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400, 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, 1984 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 400 | 1984 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Proton | Reliant |
| Model | 400 | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
