1983 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1983 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1983 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Reliant Scimitar 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make Reliant Buick
Model Scimitar LaCrosse
Year Released 1983 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2792 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 133 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 206 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 5001 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2837 mm