1971 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 330 kg more than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Matra-Simca M530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Reliant |
| Model | M530 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
