1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1998 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 102 kg more than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1998 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 1998 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi, 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, 1980 Austin Maxi (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1998 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | Maxi | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2140 mm |
