1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 4 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Datsun | Reliant |
| Model | 280Z | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2640 mm |
