1978 Peugeot 304 vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Reliant Scimitar (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 304, 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, 1988 Reliant Scimitar (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 304 | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Peugeot | Reliant |
| Model | 304 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2140 mm |
