1983 Nissan Prairie 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 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Nissan Prairie is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Nissan Prairie weights approximately 82 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
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 Nissan Prairie, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (122 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Prairie | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Nissan | Reliant |
| Model | Prairie | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2140 mm |
