2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1970 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1970 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1970 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1970 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 23 L |
