1984 Ford Orion vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1984 Ford Orion is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 394 kg more than 1984 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Orion | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Orion | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 133 HP |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
