1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1969 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1969 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1969 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 95 kg more than 1969 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Reliant Scimitar. (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1969 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lancia | Reliant |
| Model | Thema | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2540 mm |
