1981 Honda Ballade vs. 1977 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1981 Honda Ballade 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) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 480 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. 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 Honda Ballade, 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 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 1977 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | Ballade | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 93.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2640 mm |
