2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1984 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 21 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1984 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 354 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1984 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1984 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Elise | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
