1981 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 203 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1981 Fiat Panda, 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, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 1998 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | Panda | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2140 mm |
