1986 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (136 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 355 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1979 Reliant Scimitar
Make Ford Reliant
Model Escort Scimitar
Year Released 1986 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 136 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 236 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 93.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 72.4 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 151 km/hour 190 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 27 L