1969 Lotus Europa vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1985 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 275 kg more than 1969 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Europa | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2140 mm |
