1989 Citroen XM vs. 1973 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 16 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, 1989 Citroen XM (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 188 kg more than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1989 Citroen XM, 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (177 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1973 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1973 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | XM | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2540 mm |
