1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 353 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40, 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Reliant Scimitar | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
