1985 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar

To start off, 1986 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.

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, 1985 Ford Escort, 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 (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 1986 Reliant Scimitar
Make Ford Reliant
Model Escort Scimitar
Year Released 1985 1986
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1296 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 68 HP 133 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 103 Nm 207 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2640 mm