1972 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1972 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40, 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, 1972 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Reliant Scimitar | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 L | 62 L |
