1973 Honda Z vs. 1990 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1990 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Reliant Scimitar (75 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (32 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 260 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda Z, 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, 1990 Reliant Scimitar (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (43 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Honda Z | 1990 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | Z | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 32 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 43 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3140 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2140 mm |
