1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1979 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (136 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 569 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. 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, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Elan | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 27 L |
