1981 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Reliant | Chevrolet |
Model | Scimitar | Malibu |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2790 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 206 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2852 mm |