2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 205 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1982 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2640 mm |
