2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 1983 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| 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 | 91 L |
