2008 Honda FR-V vs. 1978 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda FR-V (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 199 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Reliant SE6 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 1978 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V, 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, 1978 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda FR-V. (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda FR-V. 2008 Honda FR-V has automatic transmission and 1978 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1978 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda FR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 1978 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | FR-V | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1449 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
