1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 238 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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 Volvo 480, 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 (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | 480 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
