1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 27 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2012 Scion tC, 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 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 2012 Scion tC has automatic transmission and 1985 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Scion tC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Reliant | Scion |
| Model | Scimitar | tC |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2700 mm |
