1970 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1984 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1984 Lancia Beta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Scimitar 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 22 more horse power than 1984 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1984 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 154 kg more than 1984 Lancia Beta. 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, 1984 Lancia Beta, 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 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lancia Beta. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lancia Beta. 1984 Lancia Beta has automatic transmission and 1970 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1970 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Lancia Beta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Reliant Scimitar | 1984 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Reliant | Lancia |
| Model | Scimitar | Beta |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 L | 59 L |
