2009 Opel Astra vs. 1983 Reliant SE6
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 143 kg more than 1983 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Reliant SE6 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 1983 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra, 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, 2009 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1983 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | SE6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
