1983 Pontiac Phoenix vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1986 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Pontiac | Reliant |
| Model | Phoenix | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2140 mm |
