1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse
To start off, 1988 Rover Vitesse is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Rover Vitesse (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 162 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1988 Rover Vitesse, 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, 1988 Rover Vitesse (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Rover Vitesse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 1988 Rover Vitesse | |
| Make | Reliant | Rover |
| Model | Scimitar | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2675 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2760 mm |
