2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | C | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2994 cc |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
