1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin 1800 (86 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin 1800 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 1974 Austin 1800 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | 1800 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2140 mm |
