2012 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1981 Reliant Scimitar 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1981 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Mazda 3 | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Mazda | Reliant |
Model | 3 | Scimitar |
Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2640 mm |