1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 335 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. 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 (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | 131 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 133 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
