1980 Matra-Simca Murena vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Matra-Simca Murena (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Matra-Simca Murena should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 214 kg more than 1980 Matra-Simca Murena.
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. 1981 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1980 Matra-Simca Murena has manual transmission. 1980 Matra-Simca Murena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Matra-Simca Murena | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Reliant |
| Model | Murena | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2156 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.6 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1051 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
