1988 Austin Maestro vs. 1974 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Austin Maestro is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1988 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 275 kg more than 1988 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Austin Maestro, 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, 1974 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Maestro | 1974 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | Maestro | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
