1980 Ford Escort vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Escort (96 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Escort weights approximately 55 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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 Ford Escort (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Escort | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2140 mm |
