1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 18 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 410 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, 2004 Saturn ION, 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Reliant | Saturn |
| Model | Scimitar | ION |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2630 mm |
