1982 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1982 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1982 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Reliant | Chevrolet |
| Model | Scimitar | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2525 mm |
