2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 6 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 6 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2790 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1294 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
