1977 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Reliant Scimitar | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Reliant | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Scimitar | 156 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 63 L |
