1988 Austin Montego vs. 1973 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Austin Montego is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Austin Montego. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Montego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 78 kg more than 1988 Austin Montego. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Austin Montego, 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, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Montego. (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Montego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Montego | 1973 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Austin | Reliant |
| Model | Montego | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 266 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
