1976 Mini MK III vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1982 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 690 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Mini MK III, 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, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1982 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK III | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mini | Reliant |
| Model | MK III | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2640 mm |
