1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1978 Renault 14
To start off, 1986 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 14 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 14, 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 Reliant Scimitar (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 1978 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Reliant | Renault |
| Model | Scimitar | 14 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
