2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 110 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, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 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 | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2640 mm |
