2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 29 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 39 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1980 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Reliant |
| Model | Optra | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
