1959 Abarth 2200 vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 2200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 2200 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 2200. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 2200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 175 kg more than 1959 Abarth 2200. 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. 1981 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 2200 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 2200 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:
| 1959 Abarth 2200 | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Abarth | Reliant |
| Model | 2200 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2160 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2640 mm |
