2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1972 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 678 kg more than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 Reliant Scimitar (260 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1972 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2540 mm |
