1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1977 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 465 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1977 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Fiesta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 27 L |
