1970 Saab 99 vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1978 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 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 56 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 195 kg more than 1970 Saab 99. 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, 1970 Saab 99, 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Saab 99 | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Saab | Reliant |
| Model | 99 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1709 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 27 L |
