1980 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2000 Saturn L
To start off, 2000 Saturn L is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Saturn L weights approximately 20 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Saturn L, 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, 2000 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. 2000 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Reliant Scimitar | 2000 Saturn L | |
| Make | Reliant | Saturn |
| Model | Scimitar | L |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
