1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1982 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1986 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Talbot Samba 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 (134 HP) has 44 more horse power than 1982 Talbot Samba. (90 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1982 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 54 kg more than 1982 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1982 Talbot Samba, 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Talbot Samba. (102 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 1982 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Reliant | Talbot |
| Model | Scimitar | Samba |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1219 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2350 mm |
