2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1980 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 82 kg more than 1980 Reliant SE6. 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
