2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | RX-8 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 91 L |
