1988 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 771 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80, 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. 2008 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1988 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1988 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Reliant Scimitar | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 846 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2800 mm |
