2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 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 |
