2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (95 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 305 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2140 mm |
