1986 Ford Escort vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Reliant Scimitar (75 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 70 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1986 Ford Escort (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Escort | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2140 mm |
