1983 Austin Allegro vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Allegro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Allegro would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1983 Austin Allegro. (43 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Allegro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 93 kg more than 1983 Austin Allegro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Allegro, 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, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Allegro. (70 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Allegro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Allegro | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | Allegro | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2140 mm |
