1980 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 23 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 43 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
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, 2003 Acura RSX, 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 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2003 Acura RSX 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. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Reliant Scimitar | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Reliant | Acura |
| Model | Scimitar | RSX |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2540 mm |
