2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 166 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1982 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2792 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
