1968 Mini Clubman vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1978 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mini Clubman would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1968 Mini Clubman. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1968 Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 585 kg more than 1968 Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Mini Clubman, 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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mini Clubman. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mini Clubman | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mini | Reliant |
| Model | Clubman | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3180 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2640 mm |
