1966 Mini MK I vs. 1970 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1970 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mini MK I would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1966 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 575 kg more than 1966 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Mini MK I, 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, 1970 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1970 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mini MK I | 1970 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mini | Reliant |
| Model | MK I | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2540 mm |
