1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Reliant Scimitar (75 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Maestro weights approximately 35 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 1989 Reliant Scimitar (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | Maestro | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2140 mm |
