2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1977 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Reliant Scimitar 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 1977 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1977 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1977 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
