1987 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1987 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Reliant Scimitar (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1987 Reliant Scimitar (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Reliant Scimitar | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Reliant | Renault |
| Model | Scimitar | 12 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2450 mm |
