1986 Buick Skylark vs. 1971 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1986 Buick Skylark is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 20 kg more than 1986 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Skylark, 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, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1971 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1971 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Skylark | 1971 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Buick | Reliant |
| Model | Skylark | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2540 mm |
