1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1985 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 825 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Seven | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
