2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 240 kg more than 1980 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 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 1980 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | C | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
