1981 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 65 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Reliant Scimitar | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Reliant | Chevrolet |
| Model | Scimitar | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2685 mm |
