1986 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair (153 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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 Mitsubishi Debonair (234 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Reliant |
| Model | Debonair | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2971 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
